Protect Your Neighborhood with GMRS Radios

Whether your neighborhood already has a designated neighborhood watch or you're looking to start your own, you'll likely need a radio to communicate with the rest of the watchers in your neighborhood. Many people use GMRS radios for this type of protection, and if you're looking to invest in a GMRS radio system for your neighborhood watch, here are a few reasons why these are great options.

• GMRS radios are designed for short-distance two-way communication, so while they aren't ideal for long-distance activities (like hiking or hunting) or group activities (like tours or workplace use), they are great for communicating with a partner on a neighborhood watch. The range between radios is usually 1 to 2 miles, while mobile units with antennas can work up to 5 miles away.
• GMRS radios require a license for use in the US, which allows you to communicate on the channels within the Family Radio Service. While the GMRS operator must have a license in order to use the radio, the license allows the owner's immediate family members to communicate with him or her in case of danger or emergency.
• GMRS radios are more expensive than your standard walkie talkies or two-way radios, but that's because they are considered a higher quality than those types of common radios. They won't drop the connection, and they maintain much more private connections than other radios.
• If you're on neighborhood watch and notice suspicious activity, you can easily and privately communicate with a partner by using a GMRS radio. Before approaching the suspect or interfering with the activity, you can call for backup by alerting the other person via the GMRS radio. You can even ask your partner to call the police if you feel that the situation requires even more assistance.