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I just read a thread on a newsgroup about two way radios. I thought it a prudent measure for children playing a long distance from base. Anyone else do this - or is this overkill?

RSM

You found me out.. I retire in a few months after 35 years under the colours. My son also finishes this year after 15 years with the colours. Loads of time for TT fun.

I hope all goes well with your B.I.L. in Iraq.

RSM.

I checked out the frequencies available and JanP is right. Not a big frequency gap. I guess its not such a good idea after all for the reasons JanP has highlighted.

RSM

We use radios for our 2 boys 9 & 11 I think you have to balance things in life Especially saftey of children but at the same time they do need freedom to explore and grow. saying that they don't tend to go far away any way. As hubby as a very clear and precise radio voice (ex radio operator army) the boys reconise him no problem. So would not be tempted to follow the instructions of others. We got them really due to the eldest having heart problems which can leave him very short of breath so he can call for assistance if needed. They are a cheaper way of comunicating than the mobile phone and also less likely to be stollen.You can actually get radios with more channels but obviously are more expensive.  But you are likely to get  a bit of privacy

We have a set of BT freeway that seem fine and have quite a few wavelengths on them. However we don't use them that much as we keep getting sited close to the play area since we bought them. I have never picked up anyone else on them though.

Julian

We have three walkie talkies, one each for the kids and we have one switched on in the van, Have had them for a year or so and they are not overkill, the kids think they are great and we can call them for dinner without having to put the wine down!

We were on York a couple of weeks ago and two other families had them and the kids managed to tune them all in to the same frequency.

Quote: Originally posted by Jan P on 27/5/2006

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Well actually I decided on the reverse. My husband and brother had them when fishing on a large site. They had several conversations with completely strange children saying "dad where are you?" Would have been very easy to give the children directions to where they were. There don't seem to be many wavelengths available.

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I mentioned In another forum that I had bought a set from B & Q for £ 24.99. Good range 1.5 miles [tested and verified] And since the Meh'm Sahib is a coronary patient [2 heart attacks and valve replacement etc] The peace of mind when she's out will be worth the cost. It may be a good idea to introduce a code word or some form of ID to the kids using them. Just gotta teach the Meh'm Sahib proper RT procedure now.

RSM