The Novice Survivalist
A novice outdoorsmen learning camping, fishing, bushcraft and survival. "KNOWLEDGE IS A SURVIVAL SKILL"
Weather Alerter and Comfort Companion
The reason I now own one of these is because I find myself outdoors a lot. What ever the season. Living in a 4 season state allows me to experience the outdoors under all sorts of conditions. Whether designed or not. Minnesota weather can be unpredictable at times and relying on the weather apps on my phone just does not hack it.
I had heard about weather radios and the NOAA stations but had never considered them. I went shopping, online of course and was over whelmed by the amount of equipment out there. I spent long hours shifting through piles of information. at some point I realized I need to make a basic list of what I thought the radio I purchase should have. This broke down into a very short list of basics. The main reason , which I am sure we suffer from, is Budget. My budget is tight. Here is the list I came up with
- Weather alerts from the NOAA system.
- Access to regular radio stations. Both FM and AM. (More on the reasons for this below)
- Multiple power options
- Relaible
- Sturdy
- Waterproof
- Compact
- Ease of use
That’s it. Not necessarily in order of importance
Remember that I chose this for the outdoors. As I said before I am outdoors a lot. This includes Hiking (My Regular walkabouts), Camping (I try to camp at least once a month), Fly-fishing (Summer), Ice fishing (Winter). All these activities expose me to the weather elements. Although I check the weather on a regular basis before leaving to do my activity, the weather as I said can be unpredictable. Should I find myself in bad weather the radio will alert me to what to expect and for how long. The NOAA stations also give advice for the situation.
Although I discuss the outdoor needs for these types of radios, they are perfect for home situations such as power outages during bad weather, a needed Item for a bug out bag or any other situation that may arise. Other places such as your car, work, and places you go to spend more than a day away. Maybe a cabin in the woods.
Here is a brief description of the Radio I finally chose.
FosPower’s Solar Crank Emergency Weather Radio.
The radio comes integrated with a 1W LED flashlight with zoom, an SOS alarm, 2000mAh power bank, 2 LED lights, Radio broadcasts access, and 3 power options to provide Emergency power.
Specifications
Frequency Range: AM:520-1710KHz,
FM:87-108MHz, WB:162.400-162.550MHz
Dimensions: 6.2×2.9×2.1 inches (157x74x53mm)
Weight: 10.9oz (310g)
Power Consumption: 2W (MAX)
Working Voltage: 2.7-4.2V
Power Source: 2000mAh / 3.7V Li-ion
Waterproof Level: IPX-3
LED Flashlight: 1W / 20LM
Batteries: AAA 1.5V LR03 (3 off)
The 2000mAh power bank provides enough emergency power to any mobile device in emergency situations. Works with most USB powered devices.
3 Power Sources
The radio’s AAA batteries, a solar panel, and a crank lever provide full battery power. The solar panel and crank ensure you have power whenever you need it. 
2 LED Lights Sources
A 4 LED reading light and a 1W LED flashlight capable of lighting any emergency situation.
Emergency Radio Access
The Emergency radio will give you dependable access to emergency NOAA weather broadcasts. The AM/FM function provides full access to all AM or FM radio broadcasts.
One item that is very seldom mentioned in the use of a Emergency radio is the importance of the FM, AM radios. They provide the user with music and talk. This is a very strong mental gift for the user. Just to hear other people in any emergency situation you and your family find yourself in will provide comfort. It lets you know you are not alone. Gives you something else to focus on besides the bad situation you are in.
When discussing survival tactics most gurus mention mental strength. These radios can certainly help boost your mental well being. A very important survival skill much overlooked.
Of course having the ability to charge a cell phone is a big plus, Something I had not considered on my list of needs. Especially if you have no power. The solar and hand cranks provide 2 charging options for the 200Mh Lithium Ion battery it has internally.
If you would like to see my video review on this particular Radio click on the picture below to go to my You Tube channel for a little more in depth hands on look at the FosPower’s Solar Crank Emergency Weather Radio.
There you go campers and survivalists. Something to consider for your Camp Kit or Bug out bag/emergency kit.
Remember Knowledge is a survival skill. (Even if you get that knowledge from a radio station).
Until next time
Be safe as always
The Novice Survivalist
