How to Use Emergency Shortwave Radios
A shortwave radio can be extremely useful during emergency situations such as power outages, hurricanes and tornadoes or when other security issues arise. They can help you keep in touch with the outside world by listening to what is being done to alleviate the situation. Shortwave radios can be run on electricity or may be battery- or crank-powered. They are also useful for listening to what may be going on in other countries.
Instructions
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Read the manual that is provided with your shortwave radio. This will tell you what frequencies you can pick up during an emergency. Some shortwave radios also allow for AM and FM tuning, along with some ham radio frequencies.
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Turn the radio on and select the shortwave band on the radio.
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Adjust the volume knob to a level that allows hearing the broadcasts.
Tuning with a Manual Dial
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Slide the frequency range bar to the proper setting to pick up the station for emergency broadcasts if your radio has this feature.
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5
Use the tuning knob on the radio to move the indicator to the proper frequency.
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Rotate the antenna or the radio itself to receive a stronger signal. If you cannot receive the signal, try another emergency frequency.
Digital Tuning
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Use the up and down buttons to scroll though the frequencies until the digital read-out is on the frequency you want. Alternately, use the number keys, if your set is equipped with them, to punch in the correct frequency.
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8
Rotate the antenna or the radio if the signal seems weak. Often the direction of the antenna needs only to be changed in order to receive a strong signal.
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9
Select an emergency channel pre-set if your shortwave is equipped with this feature.
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Tips & Warnings
Tune to emergency channels provided by FEMA during a natural disaster or other crucial situation. These frequencies can keep you informed of how the situation is being handled. Many shortwave radio stations change frequencies throughout the day and night. Have a list of frequencies available for emergency channels and the times they are broadcast. Keep strong batteries in your radio at all times. Many brands have a battery remaining bar or indicator that will let you know if the batteries are weak. Keep the shortwave radio in a location where it will be easy to access during an emergency. Tune to emergency channels provided by FEMA during a natural disaster or other crucial situation. These frequencies can keep you informed of how the situation is being handled. Shortwave frequencies can be downloaded from the Internet. Print these out and keep them near the radio at all times. A shortwave radio can be entertaining to listen to at any time. Conspiracy theories, talk radio and religious broadcasts abound on shortwave frequencies. If you received your shortwave radio without a manual, contact the manufacturer to get a replacement. The manual is needed to understand proper operation of the radio. Some manuals may be found on the manufacturers website. Crank shortwave radios do not need batteries, only hand power. Turn the crank on the radio to generate enough power to listen to stations. Shortwave radios are useful for listening to what may be going on in other countries.
