WYOMING — A new radio program designed to help Search and Rescue teams locate people during emergencies is ready and active, should backcountry users ever need it.
Created by the State of Wyoming, the 307 radio channel works on handheld radios and is only monitored during active searches. It’s not a 911-type service — you still have to call emergency assistance to notify someone of your emergency — but by tuning into the right channel, you can communicate directly with Search & Rescue personnel.
To use the new channel on a handheld radio, program your radio to channel 3, privacy code 07 (307), or UHF UHF 462.6125 Privacy Code 85.4.
Wyoming search and rescue personnel conduct an average of more than 300 missions annually across the state for those who become lost or stranded. Although several of the people rescued were from out of state, a higher number of them were Wyoming residents.
“The most common missions involve searches for people who were hunting, hiking, snowmobiling, skiing/snowboarding, or they were motor vehicle related,” said the Wyoming Office of Homeland Security.
Here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of being rescued:
- Buy an FRS/GMRS capable radio or walkie-talkie and program the 307 channel into the radio
- Program to UHF 462.6125 Privacy Code 85.4 or Channel 3 and Privacy code 07 (307)
- Always tell someone where you are going and when you plan on coming back. Ask local authorities if a check-in form is available
- Pack appropriate gear and supplies
- Check the weather and avalanche forecast
You can see more statistics about Search and Rescue operations in Wyoming at www.wohs.us.
