6 Best CB Options for Emergency Preparedness
Amid the ongoing global unrest and climate crisis, it is crucial to be prepared for any emergencies. Whether it’s a natural calamity, a federal policy, or anything in between- at the end of the day, you want to stay safe. That is why it is imperative to invest in a high-quality CB radio that comes with an emergency channel with real-time updates. While you’ll find several CB radios with advanced functionalities and plenty of other perks, not all of them come with an emergency channel. So, to make things easier for you, we have curated the top seven CB radios that come with a reliable emergency channel.
UNIDEN BEARCAT
This is a feature-packed radio that comes with 40 different channels, including Channel 9 for emergencies. Thanks to this feature, you can readily reach out to Channel 9 in the event of any adversity. The radio also comes with weather alert channels with real-time updates. This way, you can avoid potentially dangerous routes and the possibility of accidents.
The radio is also compact and comes with a bunch of features that you would enjoy as an off-roader or a trucker. The display comes with a solid 7-inch screen that’s glare-free and sturdy. The radio handset is backed by noise-cancellation, and it also comes with RF protection functions.
You can operate the Uniden Bearcat hands-free with a compatible wifi-powered mic.
COBRA 25 LTD
This is an excellent product from Cobra Electronics, and it comes with just the right design and functionalities to suit your tastes. The device is also packed with features including 40 different radio channels, a power output of four watts, a dedicated RF meter, and most importantly an Emergency Channel. Thanks to this channel, you can stay safe every time and also stay updated on the latest news across the globe.
We also loved the long mic cord of the CB radio. This makes it easier to communicate and because the mic stretches up to nine feet, you can comfortably talk from anywhere. The installation process is simple and you wouldn’t even need technical proficiency for it.
UNIDEN PRO 505XL
If you’re looking for a simple and affordable CB radio, the Uniden Pro is one of your best bets. This radio comes with some of the coolest features, and you also get added support from emergency channel 9. The display is easy to read, and it reveals the channel you’re at and its signal strength in real-time.
Next, you have a knob for squelching right below the knob for turning the device on and off. You can leverage this option to tweak the sound. This device operates in the PA model, and you can toggle between both modes with your knob. The device is easy to use, and it comes with big buttons and a bunch of knobs. You will also have a large arrow that points to the up and down buttons of the channel. This way, you straightaway know what to do and how to proceed with the radio and the different channels. The same applies even if you are using a CB radio for the first time, thanks to Uniden’s excellent technical manual.
MIDLAND 500-1
The CB radios from Midland are known for their exceptional performance and this one doesn’t disappoint either. First, you have an excellent design that makes it easier to communicate for long hours with teammates and dispatch professionals among others.
The next biggest highlight is the back click that enables you to attach to your vehicle visor for enhanced access. If you need channel 9 for an emergency, just give a quick switch flip. You can avail of any kind of medical emergency and also seek assistance for roadside issues. We also loved the radio body that comes with additional speaker jacks. This way, you can always tweak the radio for maximum sound.
UNIDEN PC78X
This is yet another excellent product from Uniden that lives up to your expectations with its excellent features and superb emergency response. You can easily operate the device without any wires, and it also works with supporting mics. As with other models from the brand, this radio features added channels for sending weather alerts. It also comes with multiple NOAA channels.
The emergency response can be accessed through Channel 9. You can easily operate this option to address any degree of emergency on the roadside. What’s more, you can also seek medical assistance from the channel. The radio is compact, ergonomic, and affordable. So, if you’re looking for a quick emergency response, this might be one of your best bets.
MIDLAND 75-822
This is an excellent option for anyone who cannot get a CB radio permanently installed in their vehicles. The model is handheld, and it is designed to simplify vehicle switching. You can clip to your belt, the vehicle visor, or anything similar. The device also comes with an adapter with 12V capacity which allows you to plug it anywhere in your vehicle without any requirement of additional hardware.
We also loved the 6AA batteries which are crucial for emergency responses and communication when you need them the most. The device comes with 10 extra NOAA channels along with the standard radio channels. They also have channel 9 for your emergency response and channel 19 for traffic assistance. Operating the radio is simple and because it comes with easy functions switching between channels is even easier.
BOTTOM LINE
Emergency channels can be a savior in the wake of any form of unrest. They help you stay on the top of your toes and if there’s a possibility of an emergency, you get to act at the earliest. That being said, the biggest takeaways of these radios are superb power, excellent squelch control, and an impressive feature set. Operating these radios is even simpler and practically anyone can turn them on and off. To add to all of that, the best brands usually offer a decent and all-encompassing warranty with these radios. So, explore our featured radios and choose the one with the best emergency channel function.