Good radio technique
- ensure that the channel is not in use before transmitting your message
- ensure you are clear of obstructions that may block your radio signal, e.g., thick concrete walls or sand dunes
- ensure the antenna of the portable radio is as vertical as possible at all times (always point it to the sky)
- hold the portable radio, or the microphone from a mobile radio, approximately 10cm from your mouth and to the side
- press and hold the PTT button for 2 seconds before speaking clearly to transmit your message
- release the PTT button once you have finished your message
- remain stationary when transmitting if possible, as running to an incident while trying to transmit can make it difficult for other stations to understand your message
- shield the microphone when talking in high noise and windy areas
- speak as if you were talking to someone next to you
- think about radio procedures before transmitting as well as what you are going to say, e.g., include call signs, prowords and other radio terminology wherever possible.
Poor radio technique
- carry a radio by the antenna or touch the antenna while the radio is in operation
- expect an immediate reply from a powercraft operator if they are in the surf zone or performing a rescue
- hold the radio like a mobile phone as you will not be speaking into the microphone
- press the PTT button when another station is transmitting, as you may interfere with that transmission
- yell into the radio even if there is a lot of noise around as this may cause distortion and make your message unintelligible.