Communications Tips
· ORGANIZE: Organize your thoughts and take a deep breath before talking. This will help keep your transmissions brief. Also, pause between keying the microphone and talking to allow the repeater to activate.
· LISTEN: Listen to be sure the frequency is clear before transmitting. Hear Net Control instructions, avoid transmission when "stand by" is given.
· PRESS: Press transmit key briefly before talking to keep from "clipping" your first words.
· TALK: Speak slowly and clearly, control your emotions. This helps accurate relay of information and takes less time than having to repeat information.
· HOLD MICROPHONE: Hold the microphone 2-3 inches away from your mouth to eliminate distortion of your voice.
· ALLOW TIME: Allow time for priority and emergency communication between your transmissions. Avoid immediately "keying up".
· LONG COMMUNICATIONS: Break your transmission into 20-30 second segments to allow for (a) questions, (b) clarifications, and (c) emergency transmissions.
· CHECK IN WITH NET CONTROL: Give your opening report of conditions. Hold additional comments to a minimum unless (a) the situation worsens, (b) an emergency arises, or (c) Net Control requests updated information.