When security guards see a potential threat on the property, the best action is to alert everyone involved. The prompter the alert, the faster they can stop security issues.
In recent years, walkie-talkies have become a reliable tool for increasing efficient communication among security personnel.
Businesses and property owners greatly benefit from investing in a walkie-talkie and a two-way radio system, especially if premises security is a top priority.
If you plan to invest in walkie-talkies for security guards, here are some things you need to consider.
Are Walkie Talkies Still Worth It in 2024?
Two-way radio devices have evolved from being used for novelty and entertainment into an irreplaceable and cost-effective tool for communication.
For security jobs, there’s strength in numbers. Security guards need to have a reliable, ready-to-use tool for clear communication.
Because of its effectiveness, walkie-talkies are still worth the splurge even in 2024.
Why Do I Need Walkie Talkies When I Can Use a Phone?
One common argument against walkie-talkies is this: they’re no longer needed because security staff can use phones instead.
But are phones really a better alternative?
Here are some reasons why walkie-talkies are still the better option, even if there’s a phone available.
Affordable Communication Tool
Compared to phones, walkie talkies are affordable. You can afford an entire radio security system for multiple security personnel without worrying about breaking the bank.
Walkie Talkies Are Exclusively for Communication Use
Unlike phones that have distracting applications getting in the way of proper and prompt communication, two-way radios and walkie-talkies are designed exclusively for instant communication.
When there’s an emergency, you can whip out a walkie-talkie to communicate — no need to navigate through multiple applications.
Longer-lasting Battery
Most walkie-talkies are equipped with power capacities ranging from 20,000 to 30,000 milliampere hours (mAh). This robust load guarantees that even if you haven’t gone through the hassle of charging the device every day, the walkie-talkie will still work!
How Can Walkie-Talkie Improve Premises Security?
Staying one step ahead is a must in the property and asset protection sphere.
Here’s why investing in a great walkie-talkie system is the smart choice if you’re all about protection and security.
Instant Alert Capability
When keeping a properly secured and protected, promptness is essential.
When those in charge of keeping premises safe have walkie talkies at their disposal, everyone is confident that anything that needs to be communicated will be communicated.
Seamless Team Communication
With seamless coordination among multiple security guards, sending alerts, coordinating actions, and communicating decisions is easier.
With a walkie-talkie, you will get uninterrupted communication between team members, ensuring everyone is on the same page and able to respond effectively to evolving threats.
Extended Range Coverage
From sprawling estates to expansive corporate campuses, walkie talkies provide reliable communication even over vast distances and wide range.
Another plus: walkie-talkies still work great even if you wander to spots where signals may be lost.
Dependable Performance in Any Situation
Traditional communication methods can fail in the event of power outages or disrupted phone signals.
That’s where a walkie-talkie system shines. These two-way radios are a reliable lifeline for your security team if you want a trusted system when other forms of communication become inaccessible, a walkie-talkie is the answer.
What Do I Need to Look for in a Walkie-Talkie?
Work or Leisure?
The first step to getting the right walkie talkies for your needs is matching it with yours.
If you’re seeking a radio for professional settings, opting for a robust handset with extended battery life, greater range, and multiple channels is advisable to facilitate simultaneous communication across various groups.
If you’re getting one for leisure activities such as hiking or camping, a multi-channel radio with decent range and battery life, without excessive cost, might suffice.
Frequency Selection – VHF or UHF?
Not all two-way radios are created equal, especially regarding frequency selection.
Understanding the required radio frequency is crucial. Walkie-talkies pick up either VHF (Very-high frequency) or UHF (Ultra-high frequency).
VHF radios cover greater distances with less power due to their longer waves, making them suitable for open terrains like aviation, maritime, or outdoor security sectors.
UHF radios and walkie talkies – on the other hand – work with shorter wavelengths. This option is favored for penetrating obstacles indoors, although they may struggle with materials like glass.
Range Consideration – How Does It Impact Communication?
If you’re buying walkie-talkies, checking for device range is important.
Factors like your property being on terrains or being surrounded by tall buildings should be taken into consideration since these could affect the performance of most walkie talkies.
Digital walkie-talkies typically offer superior range and privacy features by scrambling frequencies regularly, making it challenging for unauthorized users to interfere.
Also, check for flexibility because some models can transmit on both digital and analog frequencies.
Power Evaluation – Determining the Necessary Wattage
Power directly correlates with coverage range in walkie-talkies, with the general rule being 1 watt of power equals 1 mile of coverage.
If longevity is a major consideration, lithium-ion batteries are recommended for their high capacity and durability. Opt for Niickel-Metal Hydride batteries if you’re looking for a quicker charging and impact resistance option. Since most personnel will be on location for an extended period of time, it’s best to get a battery that lasts longer than 24 hours so your security will no longer have to waste time on charging their walkie talkies.
Durability: Is It Built to Last?
Of course, you want a two-way radio that will last. Look for radios with drop and shock resistance features, typically reinforced casings, to safeguard against impact damage. You also have to look for walkie talkies that don’t immediately break down especially when used during harsher weathers. You don’t want a device that gives up on you when you need it.
For the Best Walkie Talkies in the UK, Trust OS Comms!
When choosing the best walkie-talkies for protecting your business, go for the ones vetted by experts!
OS Comms features a wide selection of top walkie-talkies for those looking for trusted two-way radios for security needs.
Check out OS Comms for the best walkie-talkie options!
