Amateur Radio Club
The Amateur Radio Club has a General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS ) and Family Radio Service (FRS) practice drill Wednesdays at 9:30-9:45 a.m. on Channel 18-0 (Channel subject to change). FRS radios are license-free, GMRS radios require a license. They transmit with more power and can communicate over much longer distances. GMRS licenses cost $35, covering a person for 10 years with no test required.
People should be sure to wait until the radio is clear, then press the side button before stating their first name, last name initial and Mutual number, then release when finished. Those who have a GMRS license, should state the license number, first name, last name initial and Mutual number.
Tips for users: be clear and concise, listen before transmitting, avoid unnecessary transmissions, read the manual, practice, and use the radio outside of the home, away from any obstructions.
Ham, GMRS and FRS radios play a vital role in emergency communications. They work without relying on any existing infrastructure, making them ideal in disasters like earthquakes, flooding and wildfires. People who learn how to use radios to communicate can help others during a communication outage.
The LW Amateur Radio Club meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 9. For more information, call 562-431-6586, ext. 2409, or go to www.lwsb.com/ amateur-radio-service-club.
