FRS/GMRS and Emergency Communications

The question constantly comes up... "Is FRS/GMRS a good choice for emergency communications?"

The answer is: "Maybe... maybe not" Under NO circumstances should you assume you will be able to contact assistance in an emergency!

Here we will explore the pros and cons of using FRS/GMRS for emergency communications.

Many questions have been raised as to whether or not licensed amateur radio operators can use GMRS for emergency communications networks. The answer is a definite no! Ham radio and GMRS are two entirely different services, governed by entirely different sets of regulations. An amateur license does not grant GMRS priveleges, just as a GMRS license does not grant Amateur priveleges.

The concept of emergency communications use of FRS/GMRS has become a controversial subject over the years. Many people support extensive use of FRS/GMRS for emergency purposes, while a great deal do not. The Hurricane Katrina disaster has prompted many to explore FRS/GMRS as a means of backup communications in case of a disaster.

Persons and groups have tried to organize a dedicated emergency channel numerous times without success over the years. All attempts have failed.

While this sounds like an excellent idea up front, many issues against it are logical.

It has been tried before. All previous attempts have failed.
FRS/GMRS has no tight-knit organizational structure. There is no large FRS/GMRS community that can all agree upon accepting a standard emergency frequency. Communications among the GMRS community are next to impossible. It would not be possible to inform the public without an extensive and very expensive informational campaign.
The vast majority of FRS/GMRS users are not interested in communications with "outsiders". Many people use selective calling systems and CTCSS/DCS "Privacy Codes" to block out unwanted communications. Calls for help may go unheard.
Many persons using GMRS are unlicensed. Licensed operators do not talk to unlicensed persons. This is by principle, as well as federal regulation. Calls for help may go unheard.
Consumer-grade FRS/GMRS radios have an extremely short range. Many areas are sparsely populated. Calls for help may go unheard.
Such a plan could increase the use of higher-powered equipment on this frequency. FRS is authorized 500 mW ERP. This higher powered equipment use would require a GMRS license. This in turn would motivate the increased use of GMRS frequencies. Remember, FRS channel 1 is also a GMRS frequency. A license is required for all GMRS frequencies if the use of equipment goes outside of the boundaries of FRS regulations.
FRS is "undisciplined" Malicious interference could "jam" calls for help.

On the Positive side:

Neighborhoods should organize themselves and set up a "neighborhood network". This would be very similar to a neighborhood watch, and could actually be included in a neighborhood watch program. Set up a plan. Know that someone close by is available. Depend only on you, your family, and the rest of your local neighborhood network to assist until Public Safety can arrive.
Radios are low-cost, and easily available.
In many areas, FRS/GMRS is fairly active. In larger cities, people may be on the air that can be contacted. Again, never assume help is guaranteed 100%
More and more organizations are becoming aware of FRS/GMRS as a potential lifesaving tool. Many emergency organizations are beginning to include FRS/GMRS in emergency plans.
A "National SOS" Network is being created. Preliminary results of testing are promising. You can visit this website for more information: National SOS Radio Network.

The above comments are to be considered the personal opinion of the author only. This information has been presented as a result of common sense and personal experience. Do not assume a $20 radio is a life-saving device. They can be a tool to AID in emergency situations along with a well devised emergency plan involving other options.

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Questions? Comments? Email: gmrspage@yahoo.com