The Critical Role of Two-Way Radios in Emergency

In an emergency, maintaining critical communications is more important than ever. But mobile phone networks are not always reliable, especially when someone has an accident in a remote area, where network coverage may be imperfect or non-existent.
That's why a two-way radio is a must-have communication tool for every security organization or personal emergency kit. Two-way radios send and receive real-time radio communications by pressing a PTT button with a communication range of up to miles. Two-way radios are rugged and reliable and often have other safety features, including Emergency Alert, Man down, etc., which allow teams to stay connected at all times to keep the situation under control.
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Key Safety Features of Two-Way Radios

  •  Emergency Alert

    Emergency Alert

    Most two-way radios have an emergency alert button. In an emergency, users can trigger a call by pressing the programmable button for assistance. This dramatically reduces response time and contributes to a safer environment.

  • Man Down

    Man Down

    The Man Down alarm is triggered if the radio is in a horizontal position or has not moved for a set time. It may indicate that the user has fallen, is incapacitated, or is in danger.

  • Intrinsically Safe

    Intrinsically Safe

    If you're working in a hazardous environment, the slightest spark from an electronic device, like a cell phone, can cause an explosion. The circuit board of an intrinsically safe two-way radio is hermetically sealed to prevent this from happening.

  • Lone Worker

    Lone Worker

    Lone Worker alerts require radio users to check in at pre-set intervals. If they fail to do so, an alarm will be triggered.

Two-way Radios VS Cellular Phones in Emergency

In an emergency or natural disaster, no matter how good your mobile device is, you will lose communication if the network is overloaded or unavailable. Not only will this be an inconvenience, but it will put you and your team even endangered.
1. Faster communication

1. Faster communication

When an emergency arises, rapid communication is a top priority. When using a mobile phone, you must find a contact in your list, dial the number, wait for him or her to pick up, and then you can start talking to one another. This risks losing details with severe consequences as one person passes information to another.
Conversely, with a two-way radio, you can provide instant group calls to multiple people at the same time, saving valuable time. All you have to do is press the PTT button, and you can instantly connect with every team member or company.
2. Longer Battery life

2. Longer Battery life

The battery life will quickly drain if you have a large team that needs to be contacted in an emergency, using your phone to make frequent calls or text messages. Waiting for the phone to recharge could leave some team members unaware of what's happening, putting them at even greater risks.
Two-way radio transmissions are shorter and faster, so they drain the battery much slower than cell phone calls do. In most cases, a two-way radio's battery lasts four to six times as long as a phone fully charges. You can also purchase additional batteries for the two-way radio to ensure longer shift hours.
3. Durable

3. Durable

Cell Phones with bigger screens and ultra-thin designs are becoming fragile, and they also need to "wear a cover" to prevent falls.
Two-way radios are far more rugged than cell phones in these situations. They are sealed to be dust, water, rain, and waterjet proof, making them a better choice for harsh environments. Moreover, some two-way radios have explosion-proof designs, which means they can be used safely in explosive situations without fear of causing an explosion.
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How to Effectively Use a Two-Way Radio in an Emergency

  • Familiarize yourself with your radio

    Familiarize yourself with your radio

    To properly utilize a two-way radio in an emergency, you need to understand exactly how it works. If necessary, get atraining in two-way radios so you can take full advantage of your radio's features.

  • Less is more

    Less is more

    Speak Clearly and Concisely when you use the two-way radio in an emergency, thus ensuring the team has the necessary details in the shortest time possible.

  • Repeat the information you received

    Repeat the information you received

    In an emergency, repeating the information you received is essential, especially if you are unsure you heard the correct information.

  • Use the emergency alert button when necessary

    Use the emergency alert button when necessary

    Use the radios with a programmable emergency alert button that helps sound the alarm in an emergency.

Hytera Two-way Radios in Emergency

Hytera provides a series of two-way radios with safety features to help you and your team members stay connected in an emergency.
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