HOW TO TALK ON THE RADIO

1. Be sure your radio is switched on, set to the appropriate channel and that the volume is up.

2. Take a moment to think - know what you are going to say before transmitting. If it’s a long message with complicated details (like map coordinates), it is best to write it down before you call.

3. Listen for at least five seconds to avoid interfering with an existing communication. Let others finish their communication before starting a new conversation.

4. To Talk - press and hold the push-to-talk (PTT) button.

5. To Listen - release the the push-to-talk (PTT) button. It’s important to remember that the other person cannot speak/transmit unless you release the PTT button.

6. The microphone should be approximately five centimetres from your mouth.

7. Say {their name twice}, this is {your name}. For example “Ayse, Ayse, this is Karl, over.”

8. When you are finished speaking, say “over”, so that the other person knows they can start speaking. When they say “over” you can start speaking again.

9. Talk at a normal speaking volume - do not shout.

10. Use normal language but be brief and to the point.

11. Speak clearly and not too quickly.

12. Use short sentences, then pause to listen.

It takes training and practice to become comfortable using a radio - please ask for it.