How to Use a Radio (or Walkie Talkie)

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An instructional guide for operating a walkie talkie

This guide outlines the procedure for communicating via radio or walkie talkie in business or group settings.

Essential Information

When using a walkie talkie, your dispatcher or secretary should be addressed as 'BASE.'
To initiate communication with BASE, use the phrase '[your nick-name] to BASE.'
Upon receiving a radio call, respond with 'Go Ahead' to signal readiness to receive the message.

Procedures

Start by designating your dispatcher or secretary. The dispatcher is responsible for initiating calls for various events. Assign the nickname BASE to this individual for ease of communication.

Equip all users with a radio and a professional nickname. Avoid assigning whimsical nicknames like Momma-bear or Papa-Bear to maintain a professional tone.

When contacting BASE, use the phrase '[your nickname] to BASE.' For example, 'Packaging Department to BASE.'

Respond with 'Go Ahead' when your nickname is called.

After being called, the initiator communicates their message or inquiry.

Once the conversation concludes, the initiator may signal the end by saying and ONLY saying: 'Clear' The recipient can acknowledge this ONCE by repeating 'Clear'.

To address someone other than BASE, simply use this format: [Packaging Department to Josh] - Josh will respond with ['Go Ahead'].

'Go Ahead' signifies readiness to receive the message.

Illustration

BASE: Base calling Josh

JOSH: Ready for your message

BASE: Kindly proceed to the front desk to sign for a package just delivered.

JOSH: Understood

BASE: End of transmission

JOSH: End of transmission (optional)

Frequently Asked Questions: Walkie Talkie Usage

What does '10 10' mean on a walkie talkie?

'10 10' may signify various things depending on context. In non-police communication, it typically denotes 'transmission completed, standing by.' For police, it can mean 'negative,' 'fight in progress,' or 'off duty.'

How to initiate communication with a walkie talkie?

Press and hold the button briefly before speaking to avoid cut-off words. Maintain button press while speaking, releasing once done.

What is the optimal signal for walkie talkies?

VHF (136 - 174MHz) works best outdoors with minimal obstructions, while UHF (400 - 470MHz) is preferable in obstructed environments like indoors or amidst buildings.

How to use a walkie talkie effectively?

Prioritize clarity and brevity in your communication. Speak audibly, concluding each message with 'Over' and indicating the end of conversation with 'Out.'

Pointers

Wear a smile while speaking; your attitude reflects in your voice even over a radio.
Plan your message before transmitting to ensure coherence.
Enunciate clearly, especially in noisy environments or when dealing with background noise.

Precautions

The FCC has outlined additional frequencies for GMRS, primarily for repeater communication. To transmit on FRS or GMRS frequencies using a GMRS radio, you need a GMRS license. If your radio has a detachable antenna or exceeds 2 watts of power, it's not an approved FRS radio, requiring a GMRS license for transmission on any channel.
Avoid profanity as it is unprofessional and may be legally prohibited.
The rules regarding channels and licenses have recently changed in the USA. On 22-channel handheld radios, channels 1 through 7 and 15 through 22 were designated as GMRS channels. Initially requiring a GMRS license, in 2017, the FCC reclassified all 22 channels as Family Radio Service (FRS), eliminating the need for a license to transmit on any channel.
Transmitting without a license may result in penalties if enforced by the FCC. In Canada, GMRS channels can be used without a license. For more details on GMRS licensing, visit https://www.fcc.gov/general/general-mobile-radio-service-gmrs

Essentials

Radios for all staff members.
Clips for all staff members.
Charger for all radios.
Keep your receipt in case of lost, stolen, or damaged radios.

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