Emergency communication devices, like radios and handheld walkie-talkies are vital in survival situations not only because they enable you to keep in touch with friends, loved ones and other members of your party, but because they can help keep you informed of events at large.
But not all emergency communication devices are created equal, and there are AM, FM, NOAA radios, as well as hand-crank and solar powered radios. Here’s how to shop for your next model.
Access to More Than One Wavelength
Some radios are designed for two-way communications, others are only capable of receiving, not transmitting, signals. One that can do both is better, but if you’re stuck with the latter, it’s best if it can receive AM, FM and NOAA signals – the last one is vital because it’s responsible for transmitting weather reports.
Some high-quality radios can access tens of thousands of frequencies, including not just civilian but military air bands.
Generally Durable Construction
Your emergency communication devices will be subject to whatever conditions you are, which means they must be tough enough to weather the weather, so to speak. High-quality, rugged, durable housing units are ideal, preferably if they are impact-resistant or waterproof.
Ease of Use and Carry
Some radios come with lanyard holes or belt clips that can make them easier to carry as you go about your business. All else being equal these offer more value as they are more portable and easier to carry if you have to travel light or make space in your pack.
Alternative Power Supply
Many emergency radios can accept a standard charge through any outlet via USB, micro-USB or USB-C. Others can be charged via crank, and there are some solar powered radios out there as well. These serve as a hedge against uncertainty and can help serve you with a backup if you ever lose power for real but still need a way to communicate with the outside world.
Power Bank Functionality
If your radio can hold a charge but your phone is dead, what good is that? Get an emergency radio that offers output power and not just input power, so that it can be used as a power bank if you ever need a supplementary charge for any of your devices.
Compact Size and Weight
Some emergency radios are somewhat bulky and heavy, but there are some high-quality models out there that are effectively handheld. These are much easier to pack into a bug out bag and won’t fatigue you as quickly as larger, heavier models. With that said, there are larger, heavier, more capable emergency radios that can be favorable for “bug in” situations. So ultimately, it comes down to intended use – and remember, two is one and one is one.
Other Features
Some emergency radios might also have other features, such as emergency beacons or integrated flashlights that can be used if the power’s out. Always consider these before making a decision one way or the other because if the power ever goes out or you’re in an SHTF situation, you’ll be saddled with what you chose!
Shop Hand-Crank and Solar Powered Radios
Interested in high-quality hand-crank capable and solar powered radios? Take a look at what’s available over at CH KADELS. They carry a variety of emergency communications devices and there are plenty of radios in their catalog.
They also carry a wide variety of other survival gear and bug out bag essentials, with tons of unique and useful tools and field gear. Visit their website for more information or get in touch with them if you have any questions about anything they sell.
