In my previous articles I discussed what weather radios were and how they worked. Now I need to discuss determining which radio or means of weather information is most appropriate for your given situation. Weather alerts are issued on television, radio, and over a variety of electronic devices. While you may have access to one or all of these devices, they may not always be available when they are needed. It is very important that every houseshold or individual have a means of receiving critical weather information in the event of severe weather. Weather radios offer one of the greatest means to obtain weather alerts. There are inexpensive weather radios that provide alerts up to elaborate radios that offer weather station information along with AM/FM clock radio and an alarm clock. There are also portable devices that are inexpensive that allow an individual to carry the radio with them whether they have lack of access to information such as at work or away from home, to the sportsman that may be on the lake fishing or on a camping trip.Desktop models can be found at a cost as little as $30.00 ranging to $200.00 depending on the options one desires.
There are handheld radios that are as inexpensive as $30.00-$35.00. Oregon Scientific makes a nice handheld radio that is very inexpensive, whereas Midland Radio offers the simple desktop model to the elaborate model that has all the conveniences a nightstand could want. Nowadays, weather alerts are broadcast over amatuer radios and the latest models of police scanners include weather alerts with S.A.M.E. technology(as we discussed in prior articles). All of the radios I have mentioned offer the ability to program them for one county or a group of counties in your National Weather Service coverage region. The most important thing you can do is make sure you have acess to the information in some form.
The information can be life saving in the event of a tornado. Recent weather has had a profound impact on the midwest with floodoing and tornados. Over 30 tornados were reported on Friday September 22nd. The bottom line is to spend a few bucks and get a weather radio to protect you during normal daily activities and in the event of a power outage. Weather radios can be purchased at local department stores and on the internet at websites such as www.btproducts.us. Every person should always be informed for the potential threat of severe weather and having a means to receive the information should be a high priority to protect yourself and your family.
Paul Thompson is an Advanced Weather spotter for the National Weather Service and is a member of Skywarn that provides severe weather information to the local NWS. Paul is a weather enthusiast, a member of the National Weather Association and an amateur radio operator (K4PDT). He is a former police officer and 911 telecommunicator and has great concern for the safety of the public and their ability to understand preparedness precautions.
Source: www.articlesphere.com
