FDNY reception from Westchester County

[LathamScan]

Hello group,

I am planning on attending a parade this weekend down in Westchester County (Ossining). I would like to bring my handheld scanner along to try to listen to the FDNY during my free time.

My receiver is a BCD396XT with the standard rubber duck antenna. Considering there are many other factors that could impede reception, my primary question is this - are the VHF channels still in use, or are the UHF channels only in use now? If so, do they have good coverage into Westchester County, or should I consider changing the antenna to a UHF antenna?

If anyone from downstate could give me some insight into this, I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks,
Kevin

 

[GTR8000]

The VHF frequencies are still very much in use, and likely will be for some time to come.

My guess is that you're going to get better reception on the VHF frequencies, generally speaking, although as you said there are numerous factors to consider.

Alarms50 lives in Ossining, he'd could probably tell you exactly what to expect. If he doesn't chime in on this thread, send him a PM.

 

[N2SCV]

You would have better results too if you could get an antenna that adjusts to the proper height; approx. 17" for the VHF freqs. Radio Shack has this: Indoor Telescopic Scanner Antenna Catalog # 20-551. I've had one for over 20 years and it helps.

 

[62Truck]

The VHF freqs should work. In some areas of Dutchess County I can hear FDNY on VHF using a portable with a rubber duck.

 

[Alarms50]

You should have no problem hearing FDNY from Ossining, it is a straight shot down the Hudson.