Starting a neighborhood FRS (Family Radio Service) radio group is a powerful step toward building a more connected, prepared, and resilient community.

The beauty of FRS radios is their simplicity—no license required, easy to use, and available off-the-shelf. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get going:

🔑 Step 1: Get Your Own FRS Radios

Start by getting a pair (or more) of FRS radios. These are the small walkie-talkies often sold at outdoor stores or online. Look for:

• FRS-only models (no license needed)

• 22 channels supported

• Models with weather alert features, if possible

We don’t sell radios ourselves, but we link to well-reviewed models via Amazon affiliate links on neighborhoodradios.com if you want help choosing.

👋 Step 2: Talk to Your Neighbors

This is a grassroots effort, so start with a simple chat:

• Knock on doors or leave flyers

• Mention that you're forming a local radio watch/check-in group

• Emphasize it’s free, simple, and about community safety

• Suggest a weekly check-in time (like Sundays at 7 PM)

📻 Step 3: Pick a Home Channel

Choose a default channel everyone in your group will monitor.

• For example: Channel 3 with no privacy codes (CTCSS/DCS)

• Keep it open and simple to welcome newcomers

Some groups use mnemonics like “Channel 3, Check-in at 7” to make it easy to remember.

🧭 Step 4: Define a Purpose

Decide what your group is for:

• Emergency communication (power outage, storm, etc.)

• Neighborhood watch/reporting

• General welfare check-ins (elderly or disabled folks)

• Event coordination (block parties, cleanups, etc.)

Let people know it’s not for chatting all day—keep transmissions short, relevant, and courteous.

🗓 Step 5: Host Regular Check-Ins or Drills

• Choose a regular time and date (weekly or monthly)

• Start with a “Radio Roll Call” to test everyone's radios

• Use it as a chance to share news, preparedness tips, or just say hi

📎 Step 6: Create a Contact List

Put together a basic list:

• Names

• Addresses (optional)

• Radio call signs (you can make these up, like “Maple-5”)

• Contact info Share a printout or secure digital version within the group.

🔐 Step 7: Teach Safety & Etiquette

• Keep conversations brief and family-friendly

• Don't give out private information over the radio

• Watch out for interference from nearby users

• Encourage all users to be respectful—even to strangers

🌐 Optional: Promote Your Group

• Use neighborhood forums (Nextdoor, Facebook groups)

• Post a flier at the local library or coffee shop

• Encourage neighboring blocks to start their own and link up

Want a sample flyer, channel card, or script for your first check-in? I can help make those too—just say the word!

And remember: Neighborhood Radios is a non-profit, community-first initiative. We're just here to help people connect and stay safe.

Would you like help naming your group or choosing gear for your area?