One of the most important tools that a firefighter should always have is the radio. This allows you to stay in touch with others and to seek additional help when necessary, whatever situation you're currently handling.
However, it's not enough that you have the radio with you. It's essential that you have sufficient training on how to use and maintain it well, so that you can maximize the level of communication during any incident.
Protect and maintain your radio
How much have you mastered your hardware? You ought to know its every feature so you can optimize its use. You should also be well aware of how to take good care of the radio in order to lengthen the life and make sure it's always in good working condition.To protect and maintain your radio excellently, you have to check the manufacturer's recommendations in terms of caring for the unit, charging the batteries, and more. You might want to utilize a compressed air cleaner to ensure that the radio is free of any foreign fragments that could have stuck to it while in use. After all, it's bound to be highly exposed to a wide variety of debris, along with smoke and dust.
Test the capabilities of your radio
Understanding your radio means you can operate it very well. Read and comprehend all the features and test them even before you use them at work.You have to learn how to use the radio while wearing your protective gloves. Practice doing this so you won't run into any problems while in the middle of a crisis.
Also, it's essential to test your radio's capabilities too in different settings. For instance, check the areas and environments wherein you may not be able to transmit messages or communicate through your radio. Remember that this is one of your safety instruments, so you must prepare a back-up plan in case a particular hazard disables its functions.
Position your radio properly
Whether you're currently crawling under some fire debris, climbing a ladder, or carrying an injured person over your shoulder, you have to know how the optimal position for using your radio. Ideally, it must be in an upright position with the antenna pointing upward. It should also be at head height.When you're crawling, you're likely to place the radio in your coat pocket. But this will make the transmissions incomprehensible. This is why you must move fast to find a place where you can be in a sitting position. This way, you can utilize your radio again.
Control the information you share
Let's say you are currently reporting about an ongoing fire. Know the standard template for the report, so you don't end up providing a series of unimportant details. It's best to be straightforward, reporting the details as expected so those listening can easily understand even if the signal is not so good.One such format consists of first mentioning who you're calling, then stating who and where you are, followed by conveying your present condition as well as your surroundings and other people in your midst. You might also need to give information on progress based on the last report you made, along with available or needed resources.
Moreover, don't keep reporting when there's really nothing new or important to say. Excess info will clog the channels or potentially confuse those who are listening.
It's also crucial to keep your voice controlled with utmost clarity and sufficient volume no matter what kind of situation you're in. This will help others understand you better, unlike if you report too fast or with great emotion.
In the past and until today, these four radio handling tips have proven helpful in any firefighting site or state of affairs. Maintaining good communication is imperative for all firefighters, and your radio will surely come in handy in this aspect.
