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In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, a major
contributing factor to the tragic loss of life was the
near total breakdown of communication systems.
When electricity,
telephone, and cell phone services failed, people were
unable to let neighbors, family, and rescuers know of their dire
situation -- and some died as a result. |
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A new resource: The "National SOS" public emergency network
in which neighborhoods and communities utilize the
100 million low-cost Family Radio Service (FRS)
radios they already own. In addition, 700,000
amateur (ham) radio operators, 70,000 licensed General
Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) users, and hundreds of
thousands of scanner users have been invited to augment
the system. Training is essential to the
success of the program. Statewide and
nationwide training drills, and associated public
educational materials, are being prepared to help bring
the network to life. For the very latest
information, you can click
here to
visit our discussion forums and
here to sign up for our free mailing list.
FRS radios and FRS / GMRS combination radios used
strictly under FRS regulations don't require an
operator license, can be used by anyone of any age, and
are available for as little as $10 - $30 at many
retailers and online stores. Because of their low
cost and widespread availability, these radios can be
part of every home's emergency kit (flashlight, water,
FRS radio, batteries, etc.).
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