The one thing you should always be prepared for in life is the unexpected. When an emergency arises the best way to deal with the situation is to have a solid plan of action in place.

One of the worst things that can occur during an emergency is a loss of communication. Are you prepared to communicate in an emergency situation? Everything from dispatching appropriate response teams to contacting team members and loved ones rely directly on your ability to make contact with others.

Despite the grand importance of communication it is often left out of emergency planning, but it shouldn’t be. Every disaster that has unfolded teaches us the same lesson: in order to prevent further calamity clear communication is a must.

Emergency Communication Checklist

If an emergency strikes do you have a plan of action to reach out to appropriate people? All solid emergency plans should include a separate Emergency Communications Plan. After you create a plan it’s important to discuss it with your family, team members, and whomever else it involves.  Here are some important things to consider when creating your emergency communication plan:

1. Who do you need to contact during an emergency? Make a list of every last person or institution and distribute this list to all involved parties.
2. Collect the phone numbers, social media networks, and email addresses of everyone listed above. It’s highly advised to have at least 1-2 contacts that are out of state. Make sure these contacts are aware that they are listed as a point of contact during the instance of an emergency.
3. Identify a ‘main point of contact’ you will work with to coordinate evacuation efforts, or other necessary tasks. Make sure you run through the plan with your main contact prior to an emergency.

If an emergency arises, knowing who to contact and how to react removes a great deal of uncertainty from an already hectic situation.

The Best Emergency Communication Radio Devices

Communication technology has vastly improved over the years but it’s far from flawless. More than likely your cell phone will stop working in the instance of an emergency, even 911 phone lines may become overwhelmed and inaccessible. Two-way radios prove time and time again to be the most reliable form of emergency communication.

It’s highly advised that you are prepared to utilize more than one form of communication. Here is a list of the most commonly used devices for emergency communication.

Wide Area Radio Communication is the most reliable form of communication you can turn to during an emergency. The latest wide area technology allows two-way radios to reach as far as 300 miles. You won’t have to worry about radio lines tying up, as cell phone lines tend to do during an emergency. Plus, the superior transmission power ensures you can quickly contact people near and far.

Two-Way Radios vary considerably in power and range. The Family Radio Service (FRS) and the General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) are designed to provide two-way communication over shorter distances, typically between 5 and 35 miles. Just like two-way radios that rely on Wide Area, you have your own radio signal which allows you to contact people without the concerns associated with overrun cell phone lines.

Ham Radio is not the most popular device, but knowing how to use one can be the difference between a calamity and a solution. The Ham Radio has been used during almost every emergency in the US for over one-hundred-years. When cell phone lines go down, the Ham Bands remain a reliable way to make outside contact.

CB Radio often brings to mind images of giant radios in old big rig trucks, but they play a vital role in emergency communication. You can keep a CB Radio in your car, office, and home to ensure it is always available no matter where danger strikes.  CB Radios generally allow one to make contact within a 20 to 30 mile radius.

Satellite Phones are far from cheap but they can be very useful during a crisis. Satellite phones do not depend on cell networks, and are far less likely to be impaired by increased call volume. Meaning that even if the entire cell network collapses your satellite phone will still work.

Cell Phones are something almost everyone has, but they are not the best for emergency communication. Phone calls and text messages are likely to fail during an emergency due to a dramatic increase in phone line usage.

Social Networks offer a new way to communicate during an emergency by posting status updates and/or sending messages. In order to access this option you will need a device capable of accessing the Internet. It is not recommended to use this as a primary form of emergency communication, although it is a great way to alert and communicate with large groups of people. When cell phones stop working for placing calls and sending text messages, social media apps often still work.

Blackberry might not be the most popular phone on the market any longer but they have recently combined forces to push out new groundbreaking two-way radio technology. For the first time ever, Blackberry devices will allow you to download an app that transforms the device into a two-way radio relying on the Internet. The push-to-talk capabilities are being touted as particularly useful to military personal, emergency response teams and law enforcement that do not have authorized radio headsets available.

The Seattle-based company Twisted Pair Solutions stands behind this new app. Twisted Solutions was proud to announce the release of their web-based radio on March 10. The app relies on the networks Internet connection to send and receive verbal messages to other Blackberry users with the touch of a button.

As of now, the technology is built exclusively for Blackberry models. The Mobile Communicator is expected to be available for other devices within the near future. Developers are already busy creating compatible operating systems for iPhone, Android and Windows Mobile.

According to Tom Guthrie, the company’s president, the new application is built using WAVE Thin Client Platform, which supports military-grade security including encryption technology. Guthrie said, “We’re now enabling point-to-point communications, irrespective of what network you’re on. If you happen not to be on a Sprint network, (or other network) that someone is on, you can’t do point-to-point talk. This lets you do this.”

How Does The Mobile Communicator App Work?

Simply downloading an app will grant users access to two-way radio communication. The signal will come from the Internet connection provided by the phone company, but how does it really work?

One Blackberry executive explains the rather straightforward process, “There is a server in your enterprise [or hosted device] that has the push-to-talk and/or radio feeds going into it. It then encrypts and sends the

via data channel to the app on the BlackBerry. It sounds like an enterprise version of something like Pandora or Slacker.”

Mobile Communicator Vs. Two-Way Radio

Although this technology is very new and still has a way to come, it may offer a glimpse at the future of two-way radio technology. Albeit, that doesn’t mean the latest Mobile Communicator for Blackberry is going surpass or replace official two-way radio systems. In fact, there are still many benefits to installing a complete radio system over downloading a smartphone app. The best candidates for the app are companies with limited budgets, or who have invested in mobile phones prior to realizing what they really need is a radio system.

Investing in this technology is still not cheap, although it’s not highly expensive either. In order to obtain a secure point-to-point transmission that works on any network clients can expect to spend around $745 per device. There will also be an initial security and licensing fee expected to cost somewhere around $325 per client.

Cost aside, bloggers and industry experts are skeptical how well the latest two-way radio app known as Mobile Communicator will really work, let alone compare to the high quality of advanced two-way radio systems. Technology bloggers were quick to voice their opinions on Sprint Wireless community bulletin boards. Most have a “wait-and-see attitude,” as it’s a bit soon to really judge the capabilities of this new app.

One market observer highly familiar with the industry wrote, “I doubt that it will ever compare to iDEN (Integrated Digital Enhanced Network) PTT in terms of real-world performance.” Still, it’s not entirely far fetched, “But given that it could be ubiquitous by virtue of the fact that it is based on VoIP-like technology (RoIP), and it is just an app, this conceivably could open a whole new chapter in the life of PTT. Of course, it might turn out to be a dog and never gain any market. But if it works reasonably well, it might just be a game-changer. We’ll have to wait and see.”

Advantages To Traditional Two-Way Radio Systems

As of now, traditional two-way radio systems still offer a number of advantages:

• Two-way radios offer the most reliability in the instance of an emergency.
• Finding a reliable connection will be difficult in regions with poor Internet connectivity.
• Distraction is a big issue when using cell phones to communicate on the job. Two-way radios greatly reduce chances for distraction, while smartphones increase the risk for distraction.
• Phones are slowly becoming more durable, but as of now must shatter when dropped and die when dropped in water. This gives two-way radios an advantage in terms of durability on the job site.

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The options are endless in regards to accessories you can purchase for your Kenwood two-way radio to improve efficiency and convenience. The options are so vast it can actually get a bit overwhelming and confusing. Here are some of the top-rated Kenwood radio accessories to help narrow down your search.

Speaker Microphone With DSP Voice Enhancement Technology

This microphone speaker on this Kenwood two-way radio accessory is made with cutting technology in order to remove unwanted sound and improve communication. It is the perfect accessory for extremely noisy job sites, such as the environments encountered by emergency crews and industrial workers.

The DSP signal analysis allows the microphone to adapt depending on the level of sound in a given environment, ensuring the clearest line of communication possible. Thanks to the “voice enhancement” feature people are able to communicate at noisy sites where two-way signals would otherwise be impossible to interpret. Other features this speaker comes with include noise-canceling active LED, tactile PTT, emergency orange recessed PF key, high/low volume voice control, one-touch channel access, 360-degree rotating clip, and more! (Reference)

Kenwood Spring Action Belt Clip

This popular item includes a belt clip replacement for most Pro Talk two-way radios. This clip is made to reduce the wear and tear placed on the radio. Most users report that the belt clip fits perfectly and works great, just as expected. Your radio will remain secure in place and easy to access, regardless if you attach the clip to your belt or a bag. This product is described like a cell clip because it does not include a hinge. (see here)

Kenwood KMB-28 6 Unit Charger Adapter

For around $200 you can purchase a unit charger adapter that can charge many different units all at once. This particular model comes with 6 adapters and the space for 6 charging trays. If you need to charge a lot of two-way radios at once this is a great way of doing so. If all two-way radios go back in the same charger at the end of the workday, this works as a good way for a manager to take inventory and ensure all radios are properly charging for the next day of work. The most common cause of a radio not working is due to improper placement on the charger. If all radios retire in the same tray it’s easier for a supervisor or peer to notice if one is not charging. (As shown here)

Kenwood Water Resistant Bag

By placing your two-way radio in this water resistant bag you prevent the possibility of water damage. This accessory is only necessary if you do not purchase a waterproof radio, and many models available are water resistant. (See here)

Kenwood Handheld Control Head

This Kenwood accessory is a remote control enabled control head you attach to your two-way radio. As a result, you can use the attachment as a microphone speaker with volume control. Users love this nifty device because of the range of volume it allows, as it perfects each and every message. While other microphones on the market might cost a little less, it’s not worth the small savings. This device has great sound quality and unmatched volume control that makes it worth every penny. Plus, Kenwood offers a variety of different sized remote control heads. (Shown here)

Heavy Duty Noise Reduction Headset

Heavy-duty noise canceling Kenwood headset provides noise reduction for clearer communication. The headset includes a boom microphone and in-line PTT. This headset is large, which isn’t ideal for all industries or personalities. Kenwood offers more compact headset options as well; your choice between the two comes down to preference. (See here)

Kenwood 3.5mm Earphone Kit

If you are looking for a headset that is less invasive than the one mentioned above, there are plenty of smaller headset options. The KEP-1 3.5mm earphone kit is just one example made by Kenwood. The headset is compact but still includes a fully functional speaker and microphone. The one thing you will lose is the noise canceling quality of the larger headset. (As shown here)

Wall Mount Bracket For Two-Way Radio

If you want to mount a wall bracket for two-way radios this is the perfect option. You simply purchase the model bracket that fits your Kenwood radios and with a few screws you have a convenient new place to store radios. The only bummer is that the wall brackets do nothing in terms of charging radios. (Mount Bracket)

Two-Way Radio Nylon Case

A case protector made to fit your particular Kenwood two-way radio model offers a great way to keep your gear safe and on your person. Plus, this case has a clip that can attach just about anywhere, from your clothes to a bag, so that you can quickly access your two-way radio when needed. (Shown here)

It seems like everything is equipped with Bluetooth these days, we use Bluetooth in cars, and throughout the home. The popularity of Bluetooth has now reached the two-way radio world. Bluetooth allows you to wirelessly attach two-way radios with compatible accessories, for instance a headset or microphone, plus so much more. While two-way radios with Bluetooth tend to come with a higher price tag, it is highly valuable in certain industries.

In the future wires will become a thing of the past, but for now wires remain a part of everyday life. Bluetooth two-way radios are the way to go if you don’t want to deal with wires getting in the way.

What Is Bluetooth?

Bluetooth technology relies on radio waves to function. The band is set at 2.4GHz, a frequency that is available at no charge. Bluetooth technology allows two devices to seamlessly connect to one another using “Centrino” chips, which can be inserted into almost all standard electronic devices.

Bluetooth has a wide assortment of benefits such as no wires are needed, allowing for seamless and fuss-free communication. Also, since Bluetooth synchs automatically it creates less of a distraction and reduces the risk for injury and accident. You don’t have to remain tied to a landline, or even your two-way radio. With Bluetooth you can enjoy much greater activity level and range of motion while still maintaining direct access to communication.

Do You Need Bluetooth For Two-Way Radios?

Bluetooth capabilities naturally increase the cost of a particular two-way radio. Obviously, you only want to invest in this feature if it is going to pay off to do so. There are very few industries that do not benefit from using a Bluetooth compatible radio system.

Bluetooth is highly recommended for first responders, or those providing speedy services that rely on swift communication to get the job done right. Bluetooth is also great for employees that typically have their hands preoccupied throughout the day, say for instance construction workers or fleet drivers.

Some signs that Bluetooth will provide enough benefits to pay for itself include:

• Your team will greatly benefit from hands-free access to a two-way radio.
• You plan to purchase headsets and or microphones to accessorize two-way radios. (If you plan to use accessories with radios that do not offer Bluetooth you must take the mess of cords into consideration—will this present a distraction that reduces productivity?)
• Team members need to be discreet about communicating. It’s much harder to hide radio communication when you are covered in wires.
• Employees need to move quickly and can’t afford to be held back by invasive equipment.

Devices Equipped With Bluetooth

Less than half of all two-way radios offer Bluetooth connectivity, which often comes as a surprise considering how popular the use of Bluetooth is in everyday life. Before you hit the panic button, there is a good selection of radio models that offer Bluetooth, and so much more.

Motorola offers a couple great two-way radios with Bluetooth that are worth checking out. One of these models is Motorola’s XPR-7550. This two-way radio literally offers every last feature you could ever want. The XPR-7550 is packed with all of the goodies, including Bluetooth, GPS, a full color LCD display screen and more. This model is considered the perfect integration of a smart phone and a reliable radio. The rigid design of this model keeps it durable despite all of its fancy accessories.

Another Motorola option with Bluetooth capabilities is the XPR-6550. This model is similar to the 7550, but it does not have the same large LCD display screen. The screen on this phone is smaller and less luxurious, although the versatile and durable design of the radio is highly coveted. Not only does the XPR-6550 offer Bluetooth, but it also offers GPS capability and IMPRES battery technology for extended use.

Bluetooth Accessories For Two-Way Radios

There are a number of different wireless accessories available for both Motorola and Kenwood radios. In fact, a two-way radio with Bluetooth opens up a lot more options in terms of accessorizing. It is easy to pair and use any of these accessories without invasive and annoying wires that really get in the way at a busy job site. Wireless microphones that pair with Bluetooth devices allow you to easily magnify your voice and send a message across channels. Wireless headsets are equally convenient as they allow you and members of your team to move about freely while communicating hands-free.

Contact Highland Wireless today to learn more about which two-way radios with Bluetooth work best for you.