|
REACT International, Inc. THE CHANGING FACE OF F.R.S. For Immediate Release Suitland, MD., July 3, 2000 -- REACT International Inc., (Radio Emergency Associated Communications Teams), today recognized the growing importance of Family Radio Service (FRS) radios to promote public safety and saving lives. Originally brought out as a convenience for the family to keep in touch around their neighborhood, the shopping mall, or large events, the face of FRS has changed moving into such varied use as construction sites, warehouses, and now even coordination for demonstrations. The radio is designed with privacy codes , technically known as CTCSS (Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System) that allow the communications of one family or group of users to not be heard by others. This is a convenience feature of benefit to the user. However, in the case of someone needing to contact others, this privacy code system makes it difficult or even impossible to communicate. Users may have to search 38 privacy codes on each of 14 frequencies for a total of 532 possibilities before finding someone else to talk to. The convenience of privacy can become a drawback. Recent news indicates there are times when this ability to talk to others is not only desirable but can save lives. June 16 -- The Orange County (CA) Register:
June 21 -- Associated Press - Sandy, OR:
July Issue -- Radio Resource Magazine:
There are thousands of these units now being used in the U.S. As we have seen, certain conditions will allow a much greater distance than 2 miles maximum but even within that advertised range contact might be made if necessary when there is a recognized call channel. REACT suggests that it is now time to realize the changing face of FRS and take advantage of the safety aspect of the product as well as the designed concept of convenience. Radio Emergency Associated Communications Teams (REACT) is suggesting to radio manufacturers, magazines and other news media, and the public that FRS channel 1 (462.5625 MHz.) be used as a call channel, with privacy code disabled. REACT has solicited support and endorsement by manufacturers, and are waiting for their response. Website for the organization is http://www.reactintl.org. REACT was founded in 1962 and is the recipient of The President's Volunteer Action Award. Headquarters for the international organization of volunteer communicators is Suitland, Maryland. Although first use involved CB radio, which still exists, most teams now also use GMRS. There is an extensive network of GMRS repeaters throughout the country. In a typical year members may monitor CB, GMRS, Amateur, VHF and Marine frequencies over 3 million total hours. Approximately 170,000 calls will be taken and 39 million dollars will be saved by taxpayers because of this volunteer work.
For More Information, Contact: Bob Leef, Co-Chair, Public Relations Committee REACT International, Inc. |