With a lot of our group members active in radio communications, I would like to recommend we standardize the radio channels or frequencies that we may use on the trail. Having a set of standard set of frequencies for CB, FRS/GMRS, and Amateur radio would allow for easier communications access. Announcing preset radio channels for events can be useful when group members are trying to meet at a designated rally point. Also, as we travel to and from an event we would have communication access when traditional devices (cellular telephones) are offline or out of reach.
As we build this communication plan, we should designate a primary and secondary frequency for the different modes of communication we may use on the trail (CB, FRS, GMRS, & Ham). Keep in mind, we will undoubtedly reach a trail and may hear others using our designated frequency; having a secondary frequency will allow us to have another frequency to work. Something else to consider is designating radio channels with high power relay radios (repeaters). Having access to area repeaters can be a communication safety net if we lose cellular reception on these backcountry trails.
I have enclosed a link to an example of a communication plan developed by the Riverside Emergency Communications Group (RECG);
http://www.rcgj.net/files/recg_com.pdfFor those who want to learn more about emergency communications or EmComm, please visit
http://forum.cert-emcomm.net
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Ray C. G-J2014 Jeep Wrangler JK Rubicon (2-Dr), GPS, CB Radio (Channel 16), FRS Radio (Channel 16, No Tone), GMRS Radio (
WQIR250) & Amateur Radio
(
N6KZM). APRS =
N6KZM-9