Re: [Paddlewise] VHF radio question

Rob Gendreau wrote:
> 
> I'm once again considering a radio...I've brought my cellphone on
> paddles, and frankly in an emergency it wouldn't be as good as a radio. I
> tend to be kinda safety conscious I guess.
> 
> Anyway, I like the Standard HX150 (I think that's the model).
> Push-buttons, about $180 at West Marine, uses akaline or nicads, 1/5
> watts, 3 year waterproof warranty.

Since you are safety conscious I would recommend that you consider
spending about another $100 and buy the Standard HX350, which is
"submersible", includes a high-capacity (1100mAh) battery pack, and an
alkaline battery tray. I realize that the HX150 comes with a waterproof
warranty, but that won't do you much good if it fails in an emergency.
According to Standard, the HX350 is more waterproof than the HX150.  I
would also recommend that you carry your cell phone (in a waterproof
bag) as a back-up. BTW, check prices on the Web before you buy. West
Marine has a price-matching policy. The last time I bought something
there this policy applied to Web retailers as well--bring in a printout
of the Web page. I saved about $80 on a VHF and about $30 on my last GPS
purchase at West Marine by making use of this policy. (Hopefully it is
still in effect.)

> 
> So...can I use this radio in Canada and/or Mexico? 

Yes.

> Do I need a license to use a marine radio there?

Yes. To operate legally in Canada and Mexico you need a license and a
Restricted Operator Permit. These are easy to obtain (in the U.S.).  You
do not need to take a test.  Information can be found at:

http://www.fcc.gov/wtb/aviation&marine/fctsht14.html

Dan Hagen
Bellingham, Washington
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