[Scan-DC] DC FRS 462.5625

[john wilson]

  In my opinion a better choice would be VHF MURS HTs due to more transmit
power authorized and a greater communication range.  Potential interference
exists from operational GMRS repeaters some of which may operate from a
generator power source in an emergency.  The MURS procurement cost is more
but if the objective is dependable communications and not equipment cost, a
designated MURS frequency is a better choice even though MURS has its'
disadvantages.


Alan Henney wrote:

> DC Emergency Radio Network
> Bill Adler, billonline@adlerbooks.com
>
> The DC Emergency Radio Network (DCERN) uses inexpensive, license-free
> FRS (family radio service) radios to enable neighbors to communicate
> with each other in an emergency. This emergency radio network steps in
> when normal communications, such as telephones, the Internet, or cell
> phones, won't work. The DCERN communicates on FRS channel 1. If normal
> modes of communication go down -- be it because of a terrorist attack,
> power outage, storm, or other problem -- the DC Emergency Radio Network
> will offer a pre-planned, alternative means to transmit neighborhood
> news and information. This radio network may also be called into service
> for other emergencies, such as searching for a lost child or if
> neighbors need to evacuate their homes. Many people in the area already
> have FRS radios. FRS radios are those small walkie-talkie radios that
> family and friends use to keep in touch at parks, on ski slopes and in
> malls. They're sold at Circuit City, Office Depot, Staples, Radio Shack,
> and elsewhere, and cost between $25 and $75 a pair. FRS radios have a
> range of 1/4 to 1 mile.
>
> The DC Emergency Radio Network already encompasses a number of
> neighborhoods, including Cleveland Park, Mt. Pleasant, Brookland,
> Columbia Heights, Shepherd Park, Adams Morgan, Tenleytown, and Chevy
> Chase. It is open to anyone in the DC Metro area. If the Internet fails,
> or if there's some other emergency, tune your FRS radio to the DC
> Emergency Radio Network on channel 1. The DC Emergency Radio Network
> will work a little like a relay, with a message being transmitted person
> by person down the line. FRS radios capture the strongest signal, so
> you'll only hear the person who's talking at that moment and who has the
> most powerful signal. The DCERN is a decentralized, grassroots network.
> It's based on the notion that in a true emergency, we may only have
> ourselves to rely on -- at least at the outset.
>
> You can visit DCERN's website, http://www.dcradio.org, for more
> information. I would be happy to answer any questions that you have, as
> well: Feel free to E-mail me at billonline@adlerbooks.com or call me at
> 986-9275. We plan to schedule a test of the DC Emergency Radio Network
> on Sunday, March 16, from 8 p.m.-8:15 p.m. During the test, turn our FRS
> radio on, and see whom you can talk to. The purpose of this test is to
> practice and become comfortable with your FRS radio. There's more
> information about the test at http://www.dcradio.org. The important
> thing is: If the Internet fails, or if there's some other emergency,
> tune your FRS radio to the DC Emergency Radio Network on Channel 1. The
> DCERN may be our pipeline to emergency information.
>
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