Top 10 Most Useful Frequencies for Emergency Communications
Table of Contents
Top 10 Most Useful Frequencies for Emergency Communications
When normal lines of communication go down — cell towers fail, internet drops, and power lines fall — ham radio keeps working. But knowing how to use your radio during a crisis means knowing where to listen and transmit. These 10 key frequencies can help you stay informed, call for help, or monitor ongoing emergencies.
📡 1. 146.520 MHz – National 2-Meter Simplex
This is the calling frequency for 2-meter VHF in the U.S. It’s used for direct radio-to-radio communication when no repeater is available. During a crisis, this is one of the best places to start monitoring for local traffic.
🗼 2. Local Repeaters (Check Your Area)
Every community has its own repeater networks — many tied into ARES/RACES emergency operations. Program your local repeaters ahead of time using RepeaterBook.
Recommended gear: Baofeng UV-5R Dual Band Radio
⚠️ 3. NOAA Weather Radio – 162.400–162.550 MHz
These VHF weather broadcast channels are run by the National Weather Service. Every emergency kit should include a radio that can receive these alerts. Frequencies include:
- 162.400 MHz
- 162.425 MHz
- 162.450 MHz
- 162.475 MHz
- 162.500 MHz
- 162.525 MHz
- 162.550 MHz
Recommended: Midland WR120 Weather Alert Radio
🌍 4. 14.300 MHz – Maritime Mobile Service Net (HF)
This 20-meter frequency monitors for maritime emergencies, but also supports general emergency traffic. Tune in with an HF rig like the Yaesu FT-891 or similar.
🚨 5. 3.9935 MHz – Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN)
SATERN operates on 75 meters during disasters and supports health & welfare traffic for affected populations.
📶 6. 7.290 MHz – HF Emergency & Traffic Nets
This is a common emergency operations net frequency on 40 meters, often used during hurricanes or power outages. Keep your ear on this band at night for regional coverage.
✉️ 7. Winlink VHF/UHF Gateways
For digital messaging when internet is down, use Winlink via RF. Common packet frequencies include:
- 145.030 MHz (VHF)
- 441.050 MHz (UHF)
Learn more about Winlink and why it’s vital for preppers.
🛰️ 8. 144.390 MHz – APRS
This is the standard U.S. frequency for the Automatic Packet Reporting System (APRS). Use it to send GPS, weather, and short messages over RF during emergencies.
🔁 9. 446.000 MHz – UHF National Simplex
Used similarly to 146.520 but on the 70cm band. Useful for short-range communication in urban environments or inside buildings with less VHF penetration.
🌐 10. MURS & FRS Channels (License-Free Options)
If you’re coordinating with unlicensed friends or family, MURS (151-154 MHz) and FRS (462-467 MHz) are practical options — especially when combined with ham ops for relays.
- MURS: 151.820 / 151.880 / 151.940 / 154.570 / 154.600
- FRS: Channels 1–22 on most walkie-talkies
Recommended: Midland GXT1000VP4 FRS/GMRS Radios
🧭 Final Thoughts
Knowing where to listen is just as important as having a working radio. Print out a frequency chart, program these into your radios, and practice monitoring regularly.
In an emergency, seconds count. Whether you’re relaying health traffic over HF, checking a local weather net on VHF, or coordinating rescue teams via simplex — these 10 frequencies form the backbone of off-grid communication for amateur radio operators and preppers alike.
Stay safe and stay on the air — 73 from Daniel (KI5QHC)
