Backcountry Radio Etiquette

We need your help to get the word out and get people using their radios. We ask you to prominently carry your radio tuned to the community channel. Ask people you meet if they have heard of Backcountry Community Radio and if they own a radio.

Check-in/Radio check at trailhead
This is Jamie with party of three checking in at Rubicon trailhead on the backcountry community channel
Sharing potential hazards
We see the weak layer down 10 cm on Jake’s north trees at 8,000’
Entering complex terrain
We are about to enter Emerald Chute, is anyone below?
When clear of a given line or area
We are clear of Emerald Chute. We observed a sluff on skier’s right half way down.
Encourage proper usage to minimize chatter
This is a backcountry community channel. Please use a different channel or privacy code
Examples for emergency situations:
Send a distress call for assistance in case of an accident
Request another group to call 911 if without service

Tips for using your radio

  • Check your radio and ensure that all group members can transmit and receive, as part of your beacon check process.
  • Figure out what you want to say using plain language. Catch your breath.
  • Key your mic, pause, state your name and who you are calling.
    “Jamie calling Chris”

Rocky Talky Community Radio Guidelines: