Severe Weather and Disaster Preps and Checklists

What You Need To Know

• In the U.S., severe weather alerts will be broadcasted over NOAA weather radio
• Any VHF radio is going to be able to monitor NOAA weather.
• NOAA Weather frequencies are between 162.400 to 162.550.
• Most scanner radios on the market have weather features built in
• Dedicated Weather Alert Radios will monitor NOAA weather radio in the background and have a loud alert when there is a reason to be aware.
• Another option is to take an old scanner radio and set up that as a weather alert standby radio.
• An optimal place for an alert radio is in a central location in your home that you’ll be able to hear and that can wake you.
• It doesn’t hurt to have multiple weather alert receivers in your home
• NOAA sends out a weekly broadcast test every Wednesday and it is a great way to know that your radio will alert in an emergency.
• Scanning after a disaster can help keep you and your family safe.
• You can use the forums or database on Radio Reference to find the correct scanner for your area.
• It is important to understand that frequencies may change, and it is important to keep your scanner up to date.
• Practice using the scanner, so you know how to use it during or after an emergency.

Are you looking for your first scanner radio?

Download our new e-guide, “5 Thinks You Need to Know Before Buying Your First Scanner”.   This free PDF is about 30 pages long and has 5 things you should look for, plus a few extra bonus items to make sure you make an educated purchase.

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