Weather Radio

Getting Prepared: What You Need to Know Before Buying a Weather Radio

When it comes to being prepared for climactic and weather changes, there are several different devices to consider. Among the best to have at your disposal and use is the weather radio. Weather radios help to assess and transmit weather information to those who are in a risky situation or potentially hazardous area. They also provide governmental warnings, too.

There are several different weather radios available for those who want to buy. Each of these comes with their own features and their strengths and weaknesses. From size to cost and more, the following will help you to better understand what it is you are buying and the features that you should consider when buying.

1. The Type of Information: One of the first things that you will want to consider is just what type of information that the device transmits. Is it giving localized updates or national? How is it transmitting that information to you? This is important because if you want certain alerts, you want to make sure your radio has them. A weather band radio, for instance, will ask you to tune into a specific station. It does not work when this is not done. A weather alert radio, however, is great for emergency situations as it has an automatic feature which gives the alert regardless of channel location. Higher end choices can also give options in alerts and the type that you want to receive. These come with a more expensive price tag but can be very useful.
2. Mobility: There are several different types of devices out there, as noted. You will want to consider if you want a mobile device or a stationary one. Of course, mobile devices will be smaller and they can be moved from location to location. These are great for outdoor use. The larger options are stationary and can give more features but cannot be moved. Consider this when buying.
3. The Use: When it comes to buying a radio, you will also want to identify where and how you will use it. If you are using it in a home environment, you may want it to alert more quietly. If you are using it outdoors, alerts should be louder. You will also want to consider the type of power access that you will have for your uses. It may be best to have battery power if utilizing outdoors and plug in access if indoors.
4. The Source of Power: Weather radios are not all powered in the same way. Some rely on plug-in electrical sources. Some require AC power. Others, have batteries. Consider where you will be using and what type of power access you will have before choosing your device. Remember, some even have hand crank and multiple power options to keep you prepared.
5. Reception: Typically, weather information is sent across radio waves. These can be gathered through antennas. Most weather radios have antennas equipped to them. While some are built in to the device, others have extra external ones. If your environment is a consideration and you want a very accurate and efficient machine, consider whether or not the radio has more than one antenna.
6. The Ruggedness: If you are using a weather radio outside, you will want to make sure that it is durable. You will want to look for something that is water and rain resistant and can stand up to the elements. This is especially important if you are going to use your weather radio while out in the weather for researching purposes. If this is the case, look for a very durable model. If this is less important, however, consider something a little less durable that you can use inside.
7. Extras: There are several different add-on features that you may want to evaluate and consider when choosing a weather radio. Some radios have a mobile charger that allows for a cell phone to be charged while the device is in use. This is great for emergency situations. Some other devices have automatic tuning and light features that allow for awesome options in bad weather. Further, some have special alerts and enhancements that can be added. These special alerts are perfect for those who may require specific alerts based upon having a disability. Therefore, consider the features and extras you need before buying a weather radio.
8. The Cost: The final thing that you will want to consider is the price of a weather radio. Weather radios can range in their cost. Some are less than one-hundred dollars. Others, can be thousands of dollars. Consider this when you are buying and make sure that you consider the warranty as well.

Wrapping It Up

Weather radios should be part of your home line-up and preparedness plan. But, knowing that it should be and having the right information to make an informed choice are two very different things. Using the above information, you are in a better position to make an informed choice for your needs. Use this as your guide and get going in your preparedness choices!