Robert Smith: "What would you do in case of a natural disaster, a terrorist attack, or a break down of the nation's infrastructure? ... A portable, wind up/battery powered, AM, FM, short wave, is recommended."
Why shortwave? During a serious emergency, you may lose all local power and communications, including landline telephone, cell phone, and internet, as well as all local broadcast and cable outlets. FM radio stations farther than about 125 kilometers away won't be audible. Distant medium wave (AM) stations can be heard at night, but during the day maximum range is about 250 kilometers. Hence the need for shortwave to get news and information during daylight hours. (Satellite television and radio would also provide information, but they consume more power -- scarce in such situations -- than analog radios.)
The stations most likely to be heard are privately owned US stations, which are generally not distinguished for their news coverage. (Some may tell you: see, we told you the world was going to end.) VOA plans to close its last US-based shortwave facility, and BBC may end most of its shortwave broadcasting within five years. So far, CBC's Radio Canada International has not announced plans to close it facility at Sackville, New Brunswick. Canada and the CBC may therefore find themselves with the responsibility of keeping Americans informed after a disaster. (Helium June 2, 2010 via Kim Elliott)
Why shortwave? During a serious emergency, you may lose all local power and communications, including landline telephone, cell phone, and internet, as well as all local broadcast and cable outlets. FM radio stations farther than about 125 kilometers away won't be audible. Distant medium wave (AM) stations can be heard at night, but during the day maximum range is about 250 kilometers. Hence the need for shortwave to get news and information during daylight hours. (Satellite television and radio would also provide information, but they consume more power -- scarce in such situations -- than analog radios.)
The stations most likely to be heard are privately owned US stations, which are generally not distinguished for their news coverage. (Some may tell you: see, we told you the world was going to end.) VOA plans to close its last US-based shortwave facility, and BBC may end most of its shortwave broadcasting within five years. So far, CBC's Radio Canada International has not announced plans to close it facility at Sackville, New Brunswick. Canada and the CBC may therefore find themselves with the responsibility of keeping Americans informed after a disaster. (Helium June 2, 2010 via Kim Elliott)