Mounted search and rescue

["IRVIN LICHTENSTEIN" <ilichten1@verizon.net>]

Clarification: Radios that do not meet the technical specifications for
public safety or commercial use cannot be used on public safety or
commercial channels. The entire Appalachian SAR Conference was reportedly
put on notice for using Amateur equipment on public safety channels in the
late 1980's.  This is tempting for many companies and users that started
with Amateur equipment moved into the VHF/UHF public safety business. ICOM
and Kenwood are two that come to mind. Also, marine band units are not legal
although many public safety portables are legal in the VHF marine band. The
actual frequencies equate to the 1.75 M band or shorter. The lowest FM
channels are those assigned to the CAP around 148 MHz for air ground
coordination. These are federal and no tech standards apply 
Once you get above 149 many frequencies are now pooled among several
services and frequency coordination by a non-profit association is required
prior to licensing. These organizations do not waive their fees.     

Irv Lichtenstein ilichten1@verizon.net