Radio Use

Before venturing out, test the radios in your group to make sure they all work and that everyone can communicate using them.

Remember to always check the battery levels to ensure you have enough battery power for the duration you need to be in contact.

Team members will functional needs will require radios and/or services that enable accessibility.

Receiving Messages

1. Listen carefully, especially to messages.
2. Acknowledge all transmissions address to you.

Transmitting Messages

1. Do not interrupt another person's message.
2. Identify yourself when talking.
3. When talking, hold the radio close to your mouth with the antenna vertical.
4. Speak clearly and slowly.
5. Use the phonetic alphabet to spell out words.
6. Keep transmissions short -- about 10 seconds.

Team members who are deaf or hard of hearing will need a radio with assistive technology (e.g., a radio with text messaging capability) or the services of a sign language interpreter.