[whodathunkit]

I live about 8 miles as the crow flies from my (more elderly than me) parents and have been worried about losing communication with them in a SHTF scenario. I have zero radio experience, and I would appreciate any suggestions.

Not to discourage anyone from their interest in ham radio, I would suggest to you to consider the many alternatives available.

The one most likely to suit your needs is GMRS, a category similar to ham radio local communications.

Your radio needs are very dependent on the local terrain and 8 miles is doable with GMRS radios at higher power levels. If you are lucky, there may be a radio repeater installed in your areas that can overcome distance and terrain issues.

Ham radio as a hobby requires interest and time commitments that many aren't prepared to take on. There are alternatives that require little effort to get the results you desire such as GMRS (that only require a purchase of a license for a small fee).

Be forewarned though that all options, including ham, are on public airwaves and are easily monitored by anybody with the proper receiver.

Transmitting a location and indicating a potential vulnerability can be viewed by some as a invitation to cause harm.

[omegatoo]

Thanks, that helps a lot. I’m in SE Louisiana, no hills, but lots of trees. Suburbs, so not a lot of tall buildings between us.

O2