What is FRS and Why It Matters

In 1996, the FCC created the Family Radio Service (FRS) to give everyday families a simple, free, and legal way to stay connected.

You’ve probably seen these radios before — blister packs on the shelves at Walmart, Bass Pro, or Target promising 30 miles of range. The truth? They don’t go nearly that far, but they’ve kept families connected for decades.

In this first episode of our FRS Mini-Series, Caleb Nelson (K4CDN) shares:

• The history of FRS and why the FCC gave it to the public

• How blister-pack walkie talkies became household items in the 90s and 2000s

• The real strengths of FRS (simple, free, license-free)

• The real limits (range, fixed antennas, crowded channels)

• Why FRS still matters in your family’s communication plan today

Whether you’ve already got a set sitting in a drawer or you’re new to radios, this episode will help you see FRS in a whole new light.

--Mentioned in this episode:

• BTECH FRS-A1: https://amzn.to/3UTnjgK

• Family Connect System: https://www.familyconnectsystem.com

Listen, learn, and share this with someone who still thinks those blister-pack radios can go 35 miles.