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Walkie Talkie Radio Etiquette


Talking on the radio is not as easy as you may think. There are simple rules that you need to understand and follow to the last one. This makes communication easier and smooth. Basically, we are going to take an in depth look on the proper language used, and the mannerisms that both parties need to adhere to. This will go a long way in improving your experience using your radio and improving walkie talkie radio etiquette.

I hope that by the end of this article, you will have some idea on how to communicate effectively and efficiently without offending anyone.

However, before we get into it it, it is good to make sure that the radio is ready for use. There are a few guidelines that you should follow to make sure that the radio is in good shape.

  • First and foremost, make sure the power is on and the volume is at an optimum level.
  • The battery has enough charge
  • It is important to do a radio check to ensure that it can accept and receive messages.

*Read our related post on Walkie Talkie Lingo and Codes

The following are some of the rules that you need to follow in order to achieve proper walkie talkie radio etiquette.

Clarity

Be simple and clear. A two-way radio is a device that works best when both parties understand that it should be used to convey short clear messages. It is not designed for idle chatting and ambiguous conversations. Try to avoid long messages and using unnecessarily loud voice.

Do not be rude

walkie talkie radio etiquette 2Interrupting the other party you are having a conversation with is considered to be rude. Radio conversations are no different. Give the other party time to finish talking then you talk. It is important to make sure that you understand the message before you respond, and you can only understand by awarding the other person ample time.

Avoid confidential Information

Most of these radio channels are not secure. Radio users should be careful on the kind of information they share via these devices. Information concerning the military, finance or any other kind of sensitive material should be avoided.

Short messages, please

When it comes to transmitting long messages, it is advisable to divide these long messages into smaller sections. This will make it easier for the other person to understand the message clearly and you end up giving him time to make a comment or ask a question when necessary.

*Read our related post on Best Handheld Ham Radio

Lingo

Adhere to the lingo used for radio calls. This also depends on the kind of person you are having a conversation with. The lingo will help in making sure the message is understood and helps avoid long messages.

For instance, avoid simple yes, no. Instead, use clear words such as negative or positive. When you talk, a simple “over and out” will suffice. This clearly indicates the end of the conversation. In order to give the other person time to respond, saying  “over” after conveying your message is important. The following is a summary of the lingo you should be familiar with.

  • Radio Check – when you want to check the strength of the signal.
  • Read you loud and clear –Transmission Signal is strong.
  • Go Ahead – Resume the transmission.
  • Roger – Message is received and understood.
  • Wilco – Means “I will comply.”
  • Stand By – Acknowledges transmission, unable to respond.
  • Say Again –Transmit your message again.
  • Come in- Other party to acknowledge that they hear you.
  • Copy – Indicates that you understand the message.
  • Break, Break, Break – To interrupt a communication because of an emergency.

A few things that you should remember to make your experience more smooth include;

  • Avoid using cuss words
  • Avoid unnecessary repetition of words
  • Avoid using your radio in a noisy environment. Background noise reduces clarity.

Once you remember these simple rules, your walkie talkie radio etiquette will improve andexperience with radios will be thrilling and fun.

For more info you can view the below walkie talkie radio etiquette video

*Read our related post on Best Long Range Two Way Radios

  • October 26, 2018
Paul Dudley
 

Paul is the owner and founder of WhollyOutdoor.com . His passion for ham radios and fishing lead him to create this site. He loves playing with his radios and doing many other outdoor activities