Understanding the FRS Channel 1 Monitoring Program / National SOS Radio Network:
About the program...
DISCLAIMER=THIS LIST / GROUP IS NOT HELD LIABLE FOR MISUSE OR ABUSE OF THE PROGRAM. THOSE WHO ABUSE OR FALSELY GIVE EMERGENCY INFORMATION WILL BE SUBJECT TO CRIMINAL PROSECUTION. FURTHERMORE, WE ARE NOT DIRECTLY CONNECTED WITH THE FOLLOWING ORGANIZATIONS, WHOSE LINKS ARE LISTED BELOW, BUT WE ARE FOLLOWING THEIR EFFORTS.
In 2008, a national push by the National SOS Network and REACT International was started to help gain/form neighborhood monitors of FRS/GMRS (Family Radio Service/General Mobile Radio Service) Channel 1 during emergencies or times of need.
FRS/GMRS Channel 1 is unofficially recognized as a Emergency channel by various organizations, such as REACT. Over the last few years, FRS 14 channel radios or Hybrid 22 channel radios have become useful during times of need. Now, the push is on to get people to help use this channel and/or monitor it.
Do I need to monitor full time? No, just when you can. Please sign up under the form--as well as in the message board (which might be quicker). Under the National SOS monitoring program and its affiliations, a 'neighborhood' is defined as a 6 block radius.
1--2--3 ??? (From the July-Aug. REACTer Mag.)
How it works....
** Should the need arise, call on channel 1 on your FRS or FRS/GMRS radio for 2 minutes. Wait for 3 minutes and see if you get a response. If you don't hear anything, try again at the top of the hour. (See above.).
When should I monitor and why?
Suggestions......
Bad Weather/Power Outages-This is an excellent time to be monitoring *(especially before the storm arrives). You might be able to pass along important information such as a Tornado Warning or a downed power line/tree to help save a life (ALWAYS MAKE SURE YOUR LIFE/THOSE AROUND YOU ARE ALWAYS SAFE FIRST!).
Amber Alerts/missing persons-You can alert others on the channel to a abducted child or missing person/provide communications assistance to those who are searching.
Neighborhood Watch Programs-you can help monitor and use channel one for your communications of prowlers or safety patrols in your neighborhoods. Just make sure you have a designed monitor that all members of your organization knows about.
How can I get further details of this neat program?
Go to the National SOS Network Website to learn more or the Eecom Page link to read what the US Govt. has to say about using FRS for emergencies. Remember, this program is neighborhood based (one to 6 blocks).
NOTE: FRS/GMRS 22 Channel radios do require you to get a GMRS license, if you are planning to run on HIGH POWER or use channels 15-22. The cost is $85 and is good for 5 years. KEYWORD---Be legal!
If you think you may be interested in helping to be a monitor of FRS Channel 1 (currently) in St. Joseph Elkhart, LaPorte, or Marshall Counties, please send an e-mail to: northernindianareact@yahoo.com and let us know.
