Radio safety
Staying safe while you enjoy the hobby: antennas, radio waves, driving and the outdoors.
For a real emergency, call 911. See also the emergency page.
Antenna safety
Stay away from power lines
Look up before you raise a mast. If an antenna can reach a line when it falls, move it.
Never climb in bad weather
Wind, rain and ice make roofs and towers dangerous.
Ground and protect
Use proper grounding and lightning protection for outdoor antennas, and disconnect in storms.
Use a spotter
Have someone with you when you lift or lower a mast.
Mind the weight
Use a mount and mast rated for your antenna and your wind.
Radio wave exposure
Keep the antenna away from your body
Do not hold a handheld's antenna against your face while you transmit.
Use low power when you can
Lower power means less exposure and better battery life.
Keep people clear of outdoor antennas
Place base and mobile antennas where no one stands close.
Follow FCC exposure rules
Higher-power stations have limits for distance and use. Check the FCC guidance for your setup.
Using a radio in the car
Eyes on the road
Do not look at the radio while the vehicle is moving. Use a speaker mic.
Pull over for long chats
Park safely for anything that needs attention.
Secure the radio
A loose handheld is a projectile in a crash.
Know the laws
Some places limit hand-held devices while driving.
Hiking, camping and the outdoors
Tell someone your plan
Share where you are going and when you will be back.
Test before you go
Check your radios and batteries at home, not on the trail.
Carry spare power
A spare battery or power bank is cheap insurance.
Know the emergency basics
Learn how to call for help, and when to use 911 instead.