We live in a very connected world where communicating with friends and family is easy, even for those who live a great distance away. However, when—not if—the grid goes down, our current methods of communication will go away as well.
This leaves a major communication gap which could mean the difference between life and death in many cases. How would we communicate? That’s what we hope to answer in this article; How will we communicate when the grid is down?
As we go through these possibilities keep in mind that each method may only be suitable for certain types of communication. How you communicate with your family on your homestead will be greatly different from how you communicate with family hours away.
CB Radios
CB (Citizens Band) radios were our parents and grandparent’s version of the internet before computers became the norm.
Not only are they extremely easy to use, but they are also still readily available. They are good for communication between 1 and 25 miles, depending on the conditions around you.
Several factors come into play when it comes to signal range and effectiveness. Weather can wreak havoc on CB radio signals being able to get through and, while line-of-sight isn’t required, it does cause issues for longer distances.
However, you can learn here how to legally turn your CB car radio into a powerful transmitter capable of emitting and receiving communications from hundreds of miles away, unlike a regular CB radio.
Also, CB radios do not operate on a cellular network or internet connection, making them incredibly reliable in a grid-down scenario.
What makes CB radios even more useful is they require very little electricity, meaning even an off-grid homestead with solar panels or other forms of power generation can communicate with those around them. Also, most are portable, meaning being stationary isn’t required, such as with HAM radios.
Ham Radio
Ham Radio is what most think of when it comes to communication during a grid-down scenario, and rightfully so.
Ham radios can communicate over an expansive range. In fact, it’s not uncommon for Ham operators in the States to have the ability to communicate with others in countries across the globe.
The downside, though, is the technical capabilities and access to equipment.
Ham Radios can be difficult to operate, often requiring extensive technical knowledge to be able to operate effectively. With this technical knowledge also comes a large investment needed. To set up the equipment and antennas needed can often cost thousands of dollars. Then there comes the certification.
Unlike CB radios, HAM operators must be licensed with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This requires passing an examination that tests your knowledge of radio theory, regulations, and operating practices. When you add these hurdles with the fact that only about 700,000 Americans are currently licensed, it limits the ability to communicate with friends and family.
Another issue, too, is the need for repeaters for the signal to reach that distance. In the case of civil unrest from an extended period of the grid being down, this may impede the effectiveness of HAM Radio.
Walkie Talkies
In truth, these will likely be the most prominent form of communication in a grid-down scenario, especially for short distances.
Most communication needs will be on the homestead or with close neighbors.
Walkie Talkies become an excellent tool for this.
Their range varies depending on the walkie-talkies you use, but most can operate within a few miles. Weather and geography play a large role in how far these can work.
Another problem, too, comes in their power consumption. If you’re using these regularly you can expect to change the batteries almost daily. But if you have rechargeable batteries and the ability to recharge them, this may not be a factor.
Satellite Phone
These are good to have at any time but especially when the cellular towers begin to fail. If you and those you wish to connect with have a satellite phone, you should face little to no communication loss. Because they connect to the satellites directly, as long as the satellite is functioning, communications will be up.
Related: How to Turn Your Android or iPhone Smartphone Into a Satellite Phone
They do, however, have a hefty price tag and service fees. This may prevent the average homesteader from being able to afford them and if knowledge of you having one gets out, you may paint a target on your back during times of civil unrest.
Cell Phones/Computers
Let’s not be so quick to scoff at the idea of using cell phones and computers when the grid is down. More likely than not you’ve already developed a way to generate your own electricity.
These items communicate with other like devices through networks that have been built worldwide.
The internet is just tons of computers linked together. Cell phones use cell towers to transmit signals. If you intend to build a community and be able to communicate with fellow community members, these may be the perfect option.
Setting up your own infrastructure that is off-grid is not difficult. For the average person it may seem daunting, but setting up a local Wi-Fi network for your community isn’t difficult if you have the proper equipment.
Each network point, however, will have to have a power source to function. Setting each up with a dedicated solar panel may be the best option.
While the communication devices listed above can be invaluable in a grid-down scenario, it’s important to remember that they will unfortunately be rendered useless in the event of an EMP unless they are protected from its effects.
An EMP can damage or destroy electronic equipment, leaving you without any means of communication. This is why it’s crucial to safeguard your devices with proper protection.
I highly recommend getting your hands on an EMP Cloth, a reliable solution to shield your communication devices from EMP effects. You can learn more and purchase it here: EMP Cloth.
Low-Tech to No-Tech options
There’s a reason why starting a fire and sending smoke signals has become cliché in survival movie scenes: at one time it was all they had. Utilizing smoke signals, flares, mirrors, and whistles are just a few of the no-tech options you must communicate. Especially if the need is simply to be seen or heard.
The key to any communication strategy is to be sure each person involved is on the same page. Having a written plan to share with family and friends on what to do and how to communicate in a grid-down scenario is key to communication success.
Be sure everyone on your homestead and in your network is capable of operating the needed equipment and knows when and how you plan to communicate. As these events unfold, it only makes sense to have dedicated times when family will communicate.
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I think a couple CB radios and a couple pairs of Walkie-Talkies are best option for me. I prefer walkie-talkies that use alkaline batteries (built-in batteries are a disaster waiting to happen). With alkaline batteries, I always have extras with me.
Alkaline batteries don’t have a long shelf life. Have seen some posts where one could recharge alkaline batteries, not sure if that is truly safe to do.
Do have aaa, aa, c, d, and 9volt rechargeables, but they also are limited in lifetime charging. Battery powered devices should also have a battery eliminator transformer to be used with a solar power panel. Batteries are an Achilles’ heel for modern day transistor devices. There will come a time when all battery powered devices become paperweights, unless post SHTF society restructures back to civil life we knew of.
Popular mechanics makes a charger that works to recharge alkaline batteries that works perfectly well.
although the recharges are not as shelf stable and do no recharge to the full capacity, it works well to get extra hours or days out of batteries that would normally be thrown away. Molel number P1913N622
A Much More Private & Secure Alternative for Off Grid Comms is LORA MESHTASTIC! (LoRa stands For Long Range). Also known as LillyGo & T-Beam. It Enables Secure TEXT MESSAGING Without Internet, Cell Service, or WiFi. The Radio Node connects via Bluetooth or WiFi to your Cellphone, Tablet, Laptop, of PC (depending upon which Radio you buy) Allowing You to Communicate via Text Message, WITHOUT The Need for Cell Service or Internet. They cost between $20 to $100 each depending on the features. Some are equipped with GPS, so you can send location info if desired. It basically uses a Small Radio that, in the US, operates on 920MHz for non licensed use, & 433MHz if you’re a HAM. Basically the Nodes Automatically Form a Mesh-Network with each Radio acting as its own Repeater as it connects with other nearby nodes, thereby Doubling Your Range. Range is normally between 5 to 25 miles, line of sight. The more Nodes, the greater the coverage. At 920mHZ, it’s in the range of many SMART Appliances, & the old Cordless Telephones, thereby making it much more difficult to track & identity if someone was trying to triangulate your exact position. While the node units are capable seeing multiple contacts, the channels you setup can require a Specific Code to read the content. LOOK INTO IT, LORA MESHTASTIC FOR A BETTER OFF-GRID COMMS ALTERNATIVE.
Honestly I’m really surprised it wasn’t mentioned in the article…
Old school electronics are the best way and vacuum tube radios will probably work than sensitive transistor radios would. Transistor electronics need to be stored in Faraday cages to survive the so called EMF/EMP effects.
Not sure if EMP cloth is the end all answer, we will find out the hard way for sure. A lot of products have not been totally proven they can protect us.
I like tubes myself but they require a bit more energy than transistor/microchip type of devices, something in which unless you have made provisions for is not likely for you to encounter in a total disaster.
short range radios and multi frequincy types for checking and monitoring all freequencies
for a real idea of just how bad it will get and the time frame for the total breakdown of society
Take a historical look at ukrane, bosnia, gaza , other thriving nations in history that fell due to removing a truth, God, accountablility from ten commandments , and structured law and order
and then look at countries around the world that operate with success
any country which has suffered Gods Judgement is in total Failure
When any Country Throws out God , out the consequence for law and order and failure to prosecute justly and not by lie, cheet, deception , crooked judges and courts , it will be a matter of time before distruction occurrs
No matter what you think , the process is always the same and the end result is the same
God restrains EVIL and God hold man Accountable for thier actions , This is why
When the restrainer is taken out of the way of the evil who seeks to lie, cheet, steal, decieve for MONEY , Control, position This is what the consequence is .
Mans own Fault , Mankind stands in his or her own judgement from a true, living , God who Forgive s when repentance is true , and love s no matter the crime commited , God who is Just will forgive and restore the relationship thru Jesus Christ the Blood of the Lamb who died on a cross for all sin , past , present , future and patiently waits to see who will call out for Him and repent , turn from known sin and rejection of Gods Truth , NOT mans truth .
There is a way that seems right to all mankind , and thier ways are death ,, final distruction
I know what you’re trying to say here, and I just wanted to share a few things as well.
First, God is NOT mad at anyone, and He is NOT judging anyone at all. He has already forgiven EVERYONE for their sins, and you said, Christ died for ALL sins, past, present, and FUTURE sins. Well, since Christ died 2,000 years ago, ALL my sins were in the future and forgiven before I was even born to commit them, everyone was.
God has NO wrath to pour out on anyone. He poured it ALL out on His Son Jesus, and if He was to judge us today and hold men accountable for the sins they are committing these days, well then that’s called DOUBLE JEOPARDY, and God would be unjust and a liar if He punished His Son AND man for the same sins.
No, what we will be judged and held accountable for, is NOT accepting and receiving what Jesus did on the cross for us. That is what we will be held accountable for, NOT acts of sin, because ALL that was taken care of on the cross.
The bible says He was WOUNDED for our TRANSGRESSIONS and BRUISED for our INIQUITIES.
That means Christ was held accountable for our ACTS of sin, when He was wounded. Acts of sin are what we do, our actions like stealing or murder, so His wounds are covering our acts of sin.
Our INIQUITIES are INSIDE our bodies, and are our thoughts, like looking at a woman and lusting after her, those are INSIDE the body, the mind, and the BRUISING is INSIDE the body, so our evil thoughts are covered as well.
Wounds OUTSIDE the body. The actual acts of sin.
Bruising INSIDE the body. The evil thoughts we think, but do not actually commit.
So, you see, ALL SIN is covered at the cross, and we are ALL forgiven.
So, what sends people to hell, if we’re all forgiven….simple, people refuse the PARDON, the FREE GIFT of God, to be saved.
God is NOT judging us for ACTS of sin, He is judging us on whether or not we FREELY received the PARDON Jesus died and paid for, for us.
Did you know that if you are on death row or in prison, and the President PARDONS you, you MUST RECEIVE the pardon. It can NOT be forced on you, and if you reject the pardon…..the President has NO POWER to force you to accept the pardon, and if you reject the Presidents pardon…. THE SENTENCE MUST BE CARRIED OUT.
This is just one of the biblical truths our country is based on as a GOD fearing Nation. Our founding fathers said if God can NOT force anything on man, then our government should also be based on these principles and the people have the right to choose with their free will.
The same is true for God, He can NOT force you to accept the pardon, and if you refuse it……well then the sentence MUST be carried out. God does not send anyone to hell….they send themselves for rejecting the pardon…Jesus.
That is what God is judging us on, not if you told a lie, shoplifted or looted, or even murdered six million Jews….you are forgiven and can NOT be judged for those acts of sin…..otherwise, what future sins are we talking about here that are forgiven that Christ died for…..remember, past, present and FUTURE sins are all forgiven, and ALL sin is equal.
So, what sins are NOT covered by the cross, and God is holding man accountable for????….I don’t know of any, except for blasphemy of the Holy Spirit.
That is the ONLY unforgivable sin, and what it is, is when someone’s heart is SO HARDENED or WAXED OVER that they no longer have the ability to receive the and believe the Word from the Holy Spirit to be saved. So basically, they have rejected the pardon from God through Jesus. I believe many these days have hearts that are that hardened.
Now when we get saved, we get a NEW Spirit, and that Spirit that’s the Spirit of Christ, and is what God relates to. God can NOT relate to our old spirit.
The bible says we are born of our father the devil. Meaning we are all born with a fallen NATURE, that is naturally evil. Evil is our nature, and that’s the fallen spirit we inherit from Adam and the original sin.
It is so easy to prove too…..just ask yourself…..did you EVER have to teach a child to lie?….Did you ever have to teach a child to be selfish?…..Did you ever have to teach a child to be mean?….Did you ever have to teach a child to disobey?….No, all these things came naturally, due to our FALLEN NATURE. We are naturally evil.
Now this evil spirit is what wires our brain to think the way we do. That’s our soul, our mind and emotions.
When we accept Christ as our Saviour, that OLD spirit dies, and is replace with the Holy Spirit. This being born again. You were born of father the devil, BUT now you are ADOPTED into Gods family. We have a new Father and He adopted us as the bible says.
Now, comes time to get into the word and RENEW our minds and work on getting these evil thoughts that have been wired into our brains most of our lives. We still sin, BUT NOT because it is our nature anymore, but because our MINDS are being reprogrammed to think of good and not evil.
Now, even though we sin, we have that NEW Spirit of Christ in us, and the bible says God is SPIRIT and we must worship God IN THE SPIRIT. We can only relate to God, Spirit to Spirit, and he does not relate to our original fallen spirit.
Yes, God is aware of our sins, BUT He is NOT judging us or relating to us on our flesh level.
We are THREE parts….
Flesh….the body
Soul….our mind, thoughts and emotions.
Spirit….this is what gets saved and born again.
Now, does that mean we can go and live in sin since we are forgiven of all sin?
NO WAY!!!!….If we do, God does not punish or judge us or sin, BUT we open the door to the devil and he comes to steal, kill, and destroy. We basically give him authority to raise hell in our lives, and he will.
The Amish have a saying….You don’t have to call the devil, he’ll come without calling.
I’ve always hated when people say things like THAT WAS AN ACT OF GOD….when a tornado rips through a town and kills people. That was NOT God. That was the evil one who is in the earth. God is a GOOD Father and He is NOT mad at anyone, He is not even in a bad mood with us.
When God created Adam, He said YOU go and subdue the earth, and take dominion and authority over the earth and be fruitful and multiply. God gave ALL authority to man, but we gave it to the devil through sin.
Now God had no way of taking back authority, because He gave it to man. If He did take it back, well then He would be going against His word, and God can NOT lie.
This is why God had to come to earth as a MAN in the form of Jesus, and as a MAN God now had AUTHORITY to take BACK what the devil had stolen, but in doing so, sin had to be paid for and he had to be the one and ONLY perfect atonement for ALL sin.
As a Spirit, God had NO authority to take back anything, because He gave it to us from the start.
This is why when Jesus was praying, He said Father i there’s anyway this cup can be taken from Me, make it happen, but not my will, YOUR will be done. I seriously doubt Christ was afraid of the death He was about to die, what I believe is He had lived his entire life walking with God the Father, and He knew when He became sin for us, He would have to be separated from God and that was the cup He did NOT want to drink from, BUT He was separated from God, so mankind would NEVER have to die that death and ever be separated from God again. That’s why he said on the cross….why have You forsaken Me….God could turned His back on Jesus, so He NEVER had to turn His back on us.
Christ died the death WE deserve for being sinners, and we get the life Jesus deserved for being sinless….all you have to do is receive the FREE pardon.
Sin came into the world through ONE man, and sin was paid for by ONE God who became man.
I know people like to say yes, Jesus did all that…BUT BUT BUT I still need to do this or that or whatever. What you’re saying is, yes Jesus did a lot, but it wasn’t good enough and I still need to do a little extra as well. That’s pride plain and simple. It’s either 100% grace and what Jesus did, or it’s 100% Old Testament law and YOU meeting all the commandments.
There is NO mixing the two, and God will share His glory with NO ONE, and that’s what people try to do, when they try to say I had to do a little something as well, so in a way I kinda sorta helped save myself….just a little you know, to kinda help Jesus out. That is nothing but pride thinking you can do ANYTHING to save yourself or HELP save yourself.
The devil will whisper to you how bad you are and all you did and on and on, but the bible says just agree with your accuser QUICKLY. Meaning the devil is probably right, and you did all that, BUT you just tell the devil, yep, I did ALL that, BUT I am forgiven because of my Saviour Jesus. That ends it right there.
Also, as far as the Ten Commandments go, they were NEVER given to us to obey….shocker I know.
They were given to make sin COME ALIVE and for sin to BE STRENGTHENED.
That’s what the bible says.
You see, people used to say yes, I might do this sin or that sin, BUT look at Joe and what HE DOES, at least I don’t do what HE DOES or what SHE DOES.
They were comparing themselves among themselves and the bible says that is NOT wise. So, God said you want something to compare yourselves to…HERE, compare yourselves to MY STANDARDS, and of course no one can meet God’s standards.
People would look and read the commandments, and be convicted as their sins came alive in their hearts and they became aware of just how bad they were and force them to see that they do NOT measure up at all, and to humble people and force them to come to the end of themselves and finally say…God, if THIS is the standard, I can’t do it, I can’t meet these standards…HELP ME, I NEED A SAVIOUR.
That’s what the commandments were given for….not for us to follow, but to show us we can NEVER meet Gods standards.
Oh, and there’s not 10 commandments…there’s like 670 of them, we just know the “BIG TEN”.
Billl, so refreshing and a personal encouragement to me that I have a brother who also understands what “Salvation” really is about…
Hope to meet you someday..
“In Christ” Bob Brannan
Bill, The passage you’ve shared highlights the belief that God has already forgiven all sins through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and that people are judged based on whether they accept or reject this forgiveness. It emphasizes the importance of being “born again” and having a new spirit, which enables one to relate to God on a spiritual level. The passage also discusses the idea that God does not judge people for their sins but rather for rejecting the pardon offered through Jesus. It asserts that God does not force anyone to accept this pardon, and those who reject it are responsible for their own judgment. Additionally, the passage explores the concept of humans being born with a fallen nature and the need for spiritual rebirth to overcome this nature. It emphasizes that while believers may still sin, God does not judge them based on their sins but rather on their acceptance of the forgiveness offered through Jesus. Lastly, the passage highlights the importance of humility and recognizing one’s inability to meet God’s standards, as well as the role of the Ten Commandments in helping people understand their need for a Savior. It all makes since to me and thank you for taking the time to provide such information. I do have a question… why does the Bible speak of repentance when Jesus died for our past, present, and future sins? What are we to repent if not for sin?
I’m so glad to find another one preaching. The true gospel, not a gospel of works.
This is to jeff
When Peter said in acts 2.38 that they must repent. He was speaking to Jews keeping the Law. As best as they could
What did they have to repent of their understanding of Jesus. Repent simply mains to change You’re mind They had to come into agreement with what Jesus had done on the cross. Their baptism show this
That is what it all boils to
HAM radios do not need repeaters to communicate; at least not in the low, medium, and high frequency range (30Hz and below). It is true that VHF and UHF radios use repeaters, most of the time, to communicate long distances, but even at these higher frequencies, community level communication is common without repeaters and on occasion long distances can even be achieved. It is true that knowledge and equipment is required. I got into HAM radio with the thought that I wanted a way to communicate when the grid was down, but fell in love with the hobby from day one. I highly recommend it.
Regulations of ham license must have to operate for transmitting.
Not sure but the scuttlebutt says in a national emergency non licensed ham operators can operated, transmit for an indefinite time without getting tagged by the FCC.
Does anyone know if that is still a true option?
I heard that too, wonder if we can during a national emergency or any emergency?
Here is the wording of FCC Part 97 for emergencies:
“No provision of these rules prevents the use by an amateur station of any means of radiocommunication at its disposal to provide essential communication needs in connection with the immediate safety of human life and immediate protection of property when normal communication systems are not available.”
Note the “immediate”. That doesn’t mean you can use it for anything you want in times of emergency.
Another myth (or somewhat) is that if TSHTF, no one will care if you have a license. I know I will not talk to anyone that doesn’t have a valid license and yes I can tell.
do whaever you want with radios
brushbeater has a lot of good training and equipment for sale
Can we communicate beyond the spoken word face to face?
Can the average person even the modern day native American actually be able to read smoke signals? Anymore than the old movies showing tropical natives communicating with drums. Does the average American know how to do Morse Code and understand what is being said.
We have gotten soft today relying on the internet, social media and smartphones coupled with short attention spans of critical thinking. Maybe not, as we are possibly devolving in mental capacity. Look at what the teachers union public education has done to the public, CRT, DEI an so on.
My issue is my family is spread out across a couple of states. In case of a SHTF scenario we have absolutely no ability to communicate. Satellite phones were an option until we checked into the prices/requirements. Each family member would need one-it’s just not financially feasible. Ham radios for the distance needed would also not be affordable. I’ve been looking at this issue for several years and still don’t have an answer as to how would we communicate.
one thing to know is , massive immigration so the different groups cannot communicate
as the distance between communication s between people and understanding what is being said or trying to communicate
Real issue will be understanding what you hear and intent , meaning and interpretation
just like the days of noah , life will get confused between the races and evil will abound more and more
Education will cease and common sense will no longer be used
It will be might make right , and accourding to what someone views acceptable in thier own eyes . hardening of hearts , and no conscience as they get worse and worse .
end result : you cannot communicate
I live in FL so emergency survival is a high priority in my thinking.There are tons of video on You Tube about emergency comms. Including visual signals, I have set up 5 methods of communication. 1) cell phone and text messages. If you have not communicated your emergency plans to your family members leave a phone answering message on your phone detailing your plans. 2) Ham handheld radios are cheap and in an extreme emergency (life threatening) you can key them up without a license. Learn how to set them up to use local repeaters ( a high power rebroadcaster of your message) 3) Chinese CB radios will broadcast on both the CB band and the Ham 10 meter band. These radios are small about 4 inches square about 2 inches high (same thing about life threatening emergency goes when using the 10 meter ham frequencies) 4) A 40 meter morse code transciever. They are low power but with a long wire antenna you can get a signal out. You will have to learn a bit of morse code to send ( same goes for life threatening emegency to use.) You can download morse code decoder on your phone that way you do not have to worry about trying to figure out what is being sent back to you. All of this fits in 12 x 12 x 2 bag attached to my bugout bag.,weight about 3-4 pounds. Total cost under $200. I did this over 6-8 months to spread out the costs. I would start with a good 8-10 watt hand held ham radio. Some models will also recieve FM radio. Just some thoughts.
Great suggestions, Brad, thank you. Will try to find more info on them.
When our power goes out we use one the old time
Princess dial phone.Some times there is a little static
but overall it works well.Just plug it into the wall jack
and you are good to go.
I’ve seen them advertised on the internet.
Luckily we have a 1960s Magnavox tube type stereo
AM/FM with a turn table.If the National Emergency
Broadcast System is operational we might come news.
Landlines are not true landlines like decades back, these are hooked into the internet routers. The true landlines available are expensive for phone companies to maintain like Ma Bell. Those copper lines are being coming unaffordable for the average customer. It’s sad because the old ATT phone lines were just as good as the AM radio for emergency communication.
The China EV AM radios are trying to remove the AM radio band as it causes interference they say with the EV electronics, sure.
There is a congress bill on hold to keep AM radios in all vehicles. The AM band goes further than FM broadcast does. The China EV manufacturers may have an ulterior motive in trying to ban AM radios for communications. Probably because most conservative talk radio shows are on AM broadcast stations.
Something else to think about. Provided the phone jack has power, you can use that power to charge up some devices. You would have to do some research, if memory serves me right the standby voltage on the phone is 12 18 volts. When it rings it could be up to 50 volts. If you are not expecting a call this could be valuable resource.
Interesting ideas on the ham and other ways to communicate in emergencies.
I tried learning Morse Code, it just was not my thing to learn. The dot and dashes all sound the same, I know I would be in trouble with it.
I am looking at getting the basic ham license for future use when all internet and smartphone become useless in a grid down situation.
You know that Morse code isn’t required for a license any longer. HamExam.org is a great place to study for a license.
replying here since there wasn’t a reply option to your FCC 97 wording:
made me think right away of “stink finger to hoochie momma” youtube video What Happens If You Break FCC Laws? Will You Go To Jail For Using A Baofeng? FCC Rules & Laws by NotaRubicon Production.
i’m with you on not learning morse code, that i’ll leave for someone else with more patience than i have
As a CB user since the mid ’60s, even had a license that was required back then KQV-0274.. As far as range goes, yes, they are a low powered short range communication device, with one little exception, SKIP,,, a term of bouncing and or receiving a signal hundreds if not thousands of miles away… The bounce is off the Ionosphere, allowing you to reach those longer distances… Still today I easily reach any of the Northern, Northeastern, and Northwestern states as well as Canada… and do not forget Mexico.. Sometimes transmissions from Mexico seem to be all thats out there… I mainly use USB/LSB, (upper and lower sideband) to gain a little edge on power… there are a plethora makers of Linear amplifiers out there as well… and the amount of wattage can be astronomical… I have a couple, and will sometimes use them… PS, I also keep a backup power supple just for my commo equipment… and, your antenna design is most important… although back in the 60’s I used a $9.99 simple ground plane to reach my contacts thousands of miles away… all cheap and reliable commo stuff… I do still use my Ham radios as well equipment as well on most freq… HF, AM, FM, 2 meter and 70CM… and all the other ranges… PS, I was a RTO in the Army, had to learn morse code, thats how I qualified for my Ham license back in the 70’s… Get you a group net set up, with certain freq’s and times to communicate, as well as alternate freq’s and time’s and you’ll do just fine….
Remember radios are not secure! They are also like a flare. If you are worried about the Mad Maxs of the world finding you after TSHTF, then you must learn about Communications Security (COMSEC). There are two major issues you need to be aware of:
1. Eavesdroppers
2. Radio Direction Finding (RDF)
CBs while great cheap radios can be attacked by both as there is no encryption and a limited number of channels.
To prevent Eavesdroppers, I would recommend Ham DMR radios. While these are not encrypted, they are digital and require a little skill to set them up so the eavesdroppers would need to know how your radio is configured and have a DRM radio. They can be RDF like any radio, and if you get a 70cm band, a lot of bandwidth must be searched.
Ham radios don’t have channels of predefined frequencies, so finding the frequency to RDF is harder. Keep your transmissions short and use generic or code word locations.
I have also said even after TSHTF hams will not talk to you if your callsign isn’t valid. This is true, but if you are doing short-range point-to-point(not repeaters) with VUHF comms, with your local group, then few will care. HF is a different story, they will care.
you can get around all of that
In SHTF, ham radio gear can no doubt be used by unlicensed operators without risk of penalty. Problem is, as others have pointed out, acquiring the technical skills is more involved than just buying the gear and having it on hand. It takes specialized knowledge beyond what is needed to pass the license exam. The license exam is dead simple and only meant to ensure licensees know enough basic electrical and radio theory to not electrocute themselves or interfere with critical radio services such as public safety or aviation. Setting up a ham station and operating it on the air regularly, and talking with other ham operators, ahead of time, is needed to become proficient.
Waiting until after SHTF to unbox the gear you bought and trying to set it up, will almost certainly result in disappointment. Other licensed operators will be glad to help newcomers and recommend gear to buy, offer tips on setting up your station and learning how to operate it. But they will NOT help or interact on-air with unlicensed operators. Unlicensed folks trying to put a station on the air and learn the needed skills will be on their own without assistance from experienced operators. Getting licensed (now, before SHTF) is easy and inexpensive and will allow you to interact on the air with others ahead of time to learn the ropes. A good way to get started is to look for an Amateur Radio Club in your local area. Hams are typically friendly to newcomers and more than willing to help.
Some related thoughts on the ham community club outsiders see.
There is a notion among outsiders of the ham community of a myth about ham operators in certain clubs are a little snobbish to newbies learning the ham stuff. Kind of like those gun range know-it-all’s, who like to bully people around just learning a new skill. My gun is bigger than yours stuff.
The old ham operators who back then had to learn Morse Code to even get their ham license. I think are the ones that hate how the FCC changed the rules. That might be why there people who don’t people coming up from newbie ranks to be a skilled ham operator.
Sorta like the old people telling their young grand kids, when I was your age we walked to school for miles in the dead of a cold Winter snow. You kids got it to easy.
We can take of this with a grain of salt and laugh a little, life is too short to worry. FCC under Biden’s rule if he has another term will make internet and communications worse than we have now. Hopefully we get MAGA back some normality soon.
Morse code (aka: CW in ham lingo) isn’t required anymore for licensure, but it is still amazingly popular. My ham club holds classes for hams who want to learn Morse and always has a few. One guy in my club used to be a Morse code radio operator in the Navy years ago and can that guy rip. He can copy just as well. Another was a Morse intercept operator for the Air Force. He can send pretty well, but no one can copy as fast as he can. Pros at work during Field Days.
I gave our chased several dozen fireworks r o met that have a large ‘boom’ at the end of their flight. I also purchased a LOUD crank-type siren to mount on a roof, sounds lime the ones on them old movies! I figured these could be used a neighborhood/community warnings in case skullduggary is afoot!
Good lord i need to turn spell check on…..sorry! 😬
There is a centuries old clandestine communication network along the Texas/Mexico border called the Avisador system. Avisadores operate secretly, the techniques often passed from father to son. Largely based on coded signals flashed from place to place by individuals using sunlight on mirrors. Complex messages can be passed the length of the border in a single day. Little is known about it, but it is really cool. You can find a little info if you google something like avisadores tevas/mexican border.
No matter what, you are relying on electricity. No juice no talk. Those who have generators are going to be monitored. If not jammed outright. I am deaf. I was not born deaf but am due to injury. During the time of hearing aids I taught my group sign language, mirrors, tap code, marks on locations like hobo’s did. During a UCOIN exercise we took down a building and never said a word to each other. ASL was used. Looking through binoculars and reading hands, lowering them and “speaking” back worked fine. Inside at times tap code was used. That too worked. We had 0 “casualties” and dished out many “casualties” in the first exercise. Brass was ticked! I didn’t tell anyone we were doing this after being shot down for the dumb idea. Night mission worked just not as easy. Two missions two successes. End of two weeks were multiple successes. I was told comms were jammed but we never turned them on to be tracked or use. Compasses, ASL, tap code was a hit. In today’s world of drones listening and jamming, a silent method can be used. If nothing else learn the alphabet and numbers in sign language. Looking through binoculars and “talking” can be relatively simple, silent and successful. I highly recommend learning ASL.
I had some very livid people with lockjaw when it was explained. The watch can be silent. This worked in multiple trainings over three years in different environments including underwater. An added bonus. When you do learn ASL your observation ability increases tremendously.
Fascinating, tks.
Why is the original article one of the few in a long time that gets so many useful replies?
Chaplain Dan, what wonderful ideas! I knew a little of the sign language alphabet when I was much younger. We also learned Morse code for fun and would tap our desks with pencils to send messages. That was a lifetime ago.
I have a true (i.e., hardwired, not digital) landline at my house. Some friends of mine have them, too. Thus far in emergency situations, we’ve been able to call one another.
Some friends and family are essential personnel, so I’m thinking in many emergency situations, they’ll be working and possibly better able to get in touch than others.
I’ll need to brush up on ASL and Morse code. Semaphore can be handy, too, if one knows how to interpret the flags.
Thanks to FVP for his comments. the exact wording is 47CFR 97.40 No provision of these rules prevents the use by an amateur station of any means of radiocommunication at its disposal to provide essential communication needs in connection with the immediate safety of human life and immediate protection of property when normal communication systems are not available The words amateur station are the defining part of this section. This means a ham license. However that being said if there is no other form of communication available and it is a imminent life saving situation, key the mike it is doubtful you will be cited or fined.
Meshtastic is low frequency, low power. If you can get the unit high enough, parking structure, tall building rage of 75 to 125 miles are possible. Some meshtastic units have gps included and will transmit your location. For life saving this is excellent. In other situations you may not wish to disclose your location.
This will be peoples downfall. The addiction to facebook and electronics. The mysterious THEY are counting on it. Methods to stay anonymous are not working with cameras everywhere. I know me and several others have said the same thing when we say get off all platforms. Get yourself off the addiction to know what Hollyweird is doing. Buy more with cash. We are being tracked by our purchases. Even still as one said above, most families today are spread out over many miles. If you are trying to stay minimal I don’t have an answer for comms. I’m asking them to meet if possible at a central small town location if it is even possible. Sorry to say but if it keeps going like it is, comms will be the least of our problems. It will be horrendous.
I really hope I am wrong.
Look into ‘Meshtastic’ for off-grid, ENCRYPTED communications. You can buy a transceiver for about $23, and the phone app and firmware are free. Lots of YT videos on the topic.
No license needed.
Good Luck
Where I live a boat VHF is a fine way to communicate. Most of us have hand held radios that can be charged with 12 volt. The base radio is also 12v. The distance depends on the height of the antenna, but they do work.
IF there is still a US Coast Guard, they can also be reached.
They work well as a walkie-talkie and have quite a few frequencies. I never see them mentioned, but then, you need to be in an area where there are a lot of boaters. Gulf of Mexico qualifies.
Cool, thanks for the suggestion Jeff. No interesting gubermint license bullsh*t. HAM is generally expensive, insecure and I have no interest in talking to snotty know it all’s who think it is a privilege not a right to use the airwaves. Federal gov doesn’t own frequency bands..nature owns them. Again, thanks for an alternative idea.
I listened to a survival podcast, a husband and wife, talk about ham radio. Over and over again the wife said they would track unlicensed operators down. I had forgotten what is was like to be talked down to like that repeatedly. Thanks for the reminder.
It’s better to learn it now IMHO.
Most hams I’ve met are good, down to earth people and not like the jerks I mentioned, thankfully.
Yes, you can be tracked down. But that is usually because someone has transmitted for long periods of time and been a general nuisance. APRS is a a phone/tablet app (I use android but there may be apps for Iphone). APRS can be used through the microphone of your radio or with a cable to the radio. APRS will allow you to type a message, it will compress the message, and send it in a short data burst ( usually no longer than a minute.) This is not lone wolf communication. You must setup a group of people or access an existing group of people so you can send and receive these types of messages. I will not go into coding the messages..that is a whole different can or worms to open.
YouTube
Federal confiscations of food, medicine and communication devices. 17 minutes of you gotta be kidding me!
Nope..
Well…….The Government…..is going to have to……dig up my weeds…..herbs…..and catch my pigeon’s.
How about hand held lazers and homing pigeon’s….and payoty and mushrooms for the spirit world and of course…the bible….
When i think of the grid going down i think of all things electrical. So Things like …Inca runner messengers….homing pigeons…..pony express….could become a back up plan .But then they will become ….you could say , a type of a grid ..
I’m sure it won’t be long and we can go to our favorite doctor and get some kind of implant similar to a smartphone and we will all be lock step with the borg….no worries my fellow peppers were all one big happy family….just grooven on nature.
What about VHF radio? Almost all boaters have one. They run off 12v
Many boaters also have hand held VHF radios. Again, they can be charged off 12v. IF some functions are up, they can communicate with the US Coast Guard and they all have a weather band.
Beyond that they are line of sight communicators. For people with tall masts, they can go a long ways.
They are effectively a walkie talkie with any other VHF radio.