Read this first: there is no universal emergency frequency
Many people hope for one frequency that everyone monitors in a disaster. For amateur radio, that does not exist. Local groups choose their own repeaters, backup channels and net frequencies, and those plans change. The most reliable “emergency frequency” is the one your local emergency communications group has published.
The frequencies below are widely used or well known, mostly in the United States. Band plans differ by country, so confirm them against current sources such as the ARRL band plans, your national society, or your local group before relying on them. This page also does not offer a downloadable file. Instead it helps you make your own printable list, which is more useful because it can include your local repeaters.
Commonly cited frequencies (United States)
| Frequency | Band | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 146.520 MHz | 2 meters | National FM simplex calling frequency |
| 446.000 MHz | 70 centimeters | National FM simplex calling frequency |
| 52.525 MHz | 6 meters | FM simplex calling frequency |
| 223.500 MHz | 1.25 meters | National simplex calling frequency |
| 14.300 MHz | 20 meters | Frequently used for international emergency and maritime nets |
| 14.325 MHz | 20 meters | Hurricane Watch Net, during Atlantic hurricane activity |
| 7.268 MHz | 40 meters | Associated with Hurricane Watch Net operations at night |
Some of these are conventions rather than official designations, and nets use them only when active. A frequency being listed here does not mean anyone is listening on it.
What simplex calling frequencies are for
Simplex means radio-to-radio, with no repeater. The calling frequencies are meant for making first contact, after which operators move to another frequency. In an emergency they are a reasonable place to listen if repeaters are down, but they can be busy and are not a guaranteed channel. For the UHF side, see the 70cm band plan.
Frequencies that are not ham radio
Emergency preparedness lists often include other services. Using them has different rules.
- NOAA Weather Radio transmits on seven channels between 162.400 and 162.550 MHz in the United States. It is receive-only for most people and is useful for alerts. See our article on SKYWARN storm spotting for how hams use weather information.
- FRS and GMRS are unlicensed (FRS) and licensed (GMRS) personal radio services in the US. They have their own rules and are separate from ham radio.
- Public safety frequencies are used by police, fire and EMS. You can often listen where it is lawful, but do not transmit on them unless you are authorized.
Transmitting on frequencies you are not licensed for is illegal in most places, even in an emergency, with limited exceptions for a genuine threat to life where no other means exist. Rules vary, so do not count on exceptions.
How to build your own printable cheat sheet
- List local repeaters. Include output frequency, offset, tone (CTCSS/PL) and location. A repeater directory or your club will have them.
- Add your group’s net schedule and frequencies. Ask your Emergency Coordinator or club.
- Add simplex channels. Include the calling frequencies above and any backup simplex channels your group designates.
- Add HF nets if you plan to operate HF.
- Add weather channels. Include the NOAA Weather Radio frequency that works best at your location.
- Note date and source. Plans change, so write down when you last confirmed the list.
- Print and laminate. Keep a copy in your go bag, one at home, and one in your vehicle.
Also program the most important frequencies into your radio ahead of time. Do not count on looking things up during an emergency, since the internet may be unavailable.
Use plain language
When you do transmit, use plain language and your call sign, as is typical in emergency nets. The phonetic alphabet helps keep call signs clear. Avoid unexplained codes. Our EMCOMM overview covers how nets and groups like ARES operate.
Practice before you need it
Join local nets and take part in drills so that your cheat sheet is familiar. For a broader look at preparedness, see ham radio for survival.