Newbie

[Monnie6537]

I’m moving to WA state and want to set up a novice/in case of emergency situation (crazy world we live in now) where I can communicate with others for survival methods/needs/etc. Don’t mean to sound apocalyptic but these goings on just scare the crap outta me. What do I need (basics) and what should I not live without for these types of situations? The only thing I have now is a handheld (requires 8 AA) CB (think it’s a Cobra) from late 70’s/early 80’s and an older Motorola handheld scanner from the 80’s (I’m guessing). I have an FM antenna but I think it’s for a car. Please bear with me as I’m REALLY new at all of this. My Dad used to have a CB in the late 70’s/80’s so I know a little bout those. And he was EXCELLENT at turning a wrench.

 

[Monnie6537]

I forgot to mention my brother is an 18-wheeler truck driver so he probably has some equipment also. He has some CB’s too. Not sure which one(s) though. I’m sure he knows a thing or two about some of these things as he’s been driving an 18-wheeler for 40+ years.

 

[AK9R]

What do I need (basics)

If your plan is to communicate using amateur radio gear, you'll need an amateur radio license. Yes, it's a crazy world, but FCC rules still apply.

Maybe start by finding an amateur radio club near you. Getting involved with the club will expose you to different aspects of amateur radio and introduce you to people who can provide insights that will guide your decisions.

You can find a club near you using the search tool on the ARRL website: Search for ARRL Affiliated Clubs

Also, ARRL Field Day is coming up next weekend. Field Day is an exercise focused on setting up temporary radio stations in the field and making contacts around the country. You can find a Field Day site near you using this tool: Field Day Station Locator

 

[hill]

Motorola handheld scanner from the 80’s (I’m guessing)

Never heard of Motorola making scanners, so guessing it's an old two radio. Going forward it most likely going to be to be of limited use with all the new radio systems, plus public safety using narrow band deviation.

 

[Monnie6537]

If your plan is to communicate using amateur radio gear, you'll need an amateur radio license. Yes, it's a crazy world, but FCC rules still apply.

Maybe start by finding an amateur radio club near you. Getting involved with the club will expose you to different aspects of amateur radio and introduce you to people who can provide insights that will guide your decisions.

You can find a club near you using the search tool on the ARRL website: Search for ARRL Affiliated Clubs

Also, ARRL Field Day is coming up next weekend. Field Day is an exercise focused on setting up temporary radio stations in the field and making contacts around the country. You can find a Field Day site near you using this tool: Field Day Station Locator

Thank you for all the info. Appreciate it.

Never heard of Motorola making scanners, so guessing it's an old two radio. Going forward it most likely going to be to be of limited use with all the new radio systems, plus public safety using narrow band deviation.

Thank you. Not positive on the brand. Was hoping it might come in handy somehow. Hope to find a matching one to use as a two way as you said. My handheld CB is a Realistic also.