Walkies Talkies When Travelling At Sea – Know how to Use Hand Radios when on A Boat
Whether you’re a professional sailor, a dockworker, or even just a part of a small canoe club, using walkie-talkies is an indispensable tool in the maritime world. Walkie-talkies are perfect for marine life for many reasons. Some of these reasons are for safety, of course, but there are many other areas where using walkie-talkies has its benefits, from working without a signal to long battery life and so much more. Let’s take a look as to why you might want to consider carrying a walkie talkie when you venture out on the water.
Ensuring Safety at Sea With Walkie Talkies
When you are on a body of water, you know, as an avid boater, you are very aware of the risks involved with being at sea. The water demands respect at all times, and storms can come out of virtually nowhere, making it very dangerous. Because of this, many people like to do anything and everything possible to ensure their safety while out on the water, including carrying a walkie-talkie. These reliable hand radios offer a unique connection to the outside world at all times. They are easy to use and reliable, even when you are out at sea, without relying on signals from cell phone towers.
However, many people aren’t aware of the various features offered on walkie-talkies that make them even more ideal for marine use. These features include:
Man Down Feature
The “Man Down Feature” is a smart function in walkie-talkies that works like a watchful guardian. Imagine you’re on a boat or at a busy port, and someone carrying a walkie-talkie accidentally falls or gets into trouble. This feature is there to help in such situations.
Here’s how it works: The walkie-talkie has special sensors that can detect if the person carrying it has fallen down or experienced a sudden motion like a fall. If it senses such motion and nobody cancels it, the walkie-talkie automatically sends out an emergency signal. This signal alerts others that someone might be in trouble.
Lone Worker Feature
The “Lone Worker” feature is like having a virtual buddy when you’re working alone in areas that might be a bit risky. Whether on a boat, at a port, or out exploring the waters, this feature has your back.
Here’s how it works: When working alone, the walkie-talkie asks you to check in regularly. It’s like saying, “Hey, are you okay?” You simply press a button on the radio to let it know that you’re fine.
But here’s where it gets clever: If you forget to check in or something happens that prevents you from doing so, the walkie-talkie takes action. It doesn’t just sit there quietly; it gets worried about you. So, if it doesn’t hear from you as expected, it triggers an alert.
This alert is like a digital lifeline. It lets others know that you might be in trouble because you missed your check-in. It’s like having someone watching over you, ready to call for help if you need it.
Emergency Button
The “Emergency Button” on a walkie-talkie is your direct line to immediate help when things take a sudden turn for the worse. It’s like having a red alarm button at your fingertips, ready to call for help when you need it most. Typically, this can be done with gloves or other obstructions; unlike a cell phone, the button is easy to reach and use.
GPS Locator
Some models allow tracking of handset location. This is important. While the other features might alert someone that it is a problem, without any way of knowing where you are, that could mean disaster. When the alarm goes off from the lone worker feature or an emergency is detected, it’s important that those answering the call can locate you.
Other Benefits of Using a Walkie-Talkie at Sea or On the Water
Marine-rated walkie-talkies are durable. In fact, they are built to withstand the harsh marine environment. They are waterproof and sturdy, ensuring they function flawlessly even in extreme conditions. This allows those who are working in these conditions peace of mind that when they need to communicate with someone, they can.
Furthermore, marine environments often provide a clear line of sight without obstructions or terrain. This is ideal for maximizing the walkie-talkie range. They typically have long-lasting batteries, allowing them to function throughout an entire day, crucial for prolonged journeys at sea.
Who Can Benefit from Walkie-Talkies in a Marine Environment?
Walkie-talkies are versatile tools suitable for various marine situations. Here are a few examples of those who can benefit:
- Ship and Boat Crews: Whether on a massive container ship or a fishing vessel in a storm, walkie-talkies provide clear communication even in challenging conditions.
- Sailing Schools and Yacht Races: These devices are perfect for coordinating yacht races and keeping in touch with groups of training yachts. They also help crews communicate better and in a safer manner.
- Port Operations: Walkie-talkies streamline communication in busy ports, helping workers adapt to changing circumstances and stay informed about potential hazards.
As you can see, choosing walkie-talkies as a part of your marine toolbox is beneficial for many reasons. They are versatile tools essential for ensuring the smooth and safe operation of various maritime activities. From hobby sailors to busy port operations, walkie-talkies enhance communication and safety in every marine situation.