FRS radios are a great start, but they aren’t the whole plan. They work for kids, neighbors, and short-range use — but when the storm hits or the grid goes down, you may need more.

In this episode, Caleb Nelson (K4CDN) explains how FRS fits into a complete family communication plan, including:

• The strengths and limits of FRS radios

• How GMRS, MURS, and ham radio build on that foundation

• Why thinking in layers — the Cascade Protocol — makes families stronger

• How National Preparedness Month is the right time to move from gear to plan

FRS is a tool worth having, and combined with clarity, it's what keeps families connected.

Mentioned in this episode:

• BTECH FRS-A1: https://amzn.to/3UTnjgK

• Retevis RT15: https://amzn.to/3UTedki

• Retevis RB66P: https://amzn.to/4mIRbZt

• Retevis RB48: https://amzn.to/47HOP8T

• Motorola Waterproof FRS: https://amzn.to/4g5oV0Q

• Family Connect System Webinar Replay: www.familyconnectsystem.com

FRS radios aren’t all created equal. Some blister-pack sets are cheap toys that break in a weekend, while others are solid enough to trust on family trips or in an emergency.

In this third episode of the FRS Mini-Series, Caleb Nelson (K4CDN) takes a practical look at the gear:

• What really matters in an FRS radio (durability, batteries, usability)

• Why you shouldn’t believe the “35-mile range” marketing

• The difference between throwaway blister packs and quality FRS options

• Caleb’s go-to pick for a reliable family radio

This isn’t about buying the most expensive radio on the shelf — it’s about choosing gear that works when your family needs it.

And with September being National Preparedness Month, there’s no better time to make sure your radios are ready.

Want the bigger picture? The Family Connect System webinar replay is available now. Watch here: www.familyconnectsystem.com

Mentioned in this episode:

• BTECH FRS-A1 (Caleb’s pick): https://amzn.to/3UTnjgK

• Retevis RT15: https://amzn.to/3UTedki

• Retevis RB66P: https://amzn.to/4mIRbZt

• Retevis RB48: https://amzn.to/47HOP8T

• Motorola Waterproof FRS: https://amzn.to/4g5oV0Q

• Blog recap: hamradionetwork.com/

• Family Connect System Webinar Replay: www.familyconnectsystem.com

August 29, 2005. Hurricane Katrina slammed the Gulf Coast, the levees failed, and the water swallowed entire neighborhoods. Phones went dead. Power grids collapsed. Families were cut off and 911 calls were rerouted anywhere a signal could land.

In the middle of that chaos were volunteers — amateur radio operators who carried their share of the load when the systems failed.

One of them was Carl, KB5WMY (Silent Key). In 2015, he sat down with me to share his story of working at the Bossier Parish 911 center after Katrina. Carl spoke openly about the calls he could help, the ones he couldn’t, and the weight of serving in those days.

Now, on the 20th anniversary of Katrina, we honor Carl’s memory and service by replaying that full conversation. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at how ordinary people with radios made a difference when everything else went silent.

vist www.prepcomms.com for more including the bonus audio material