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MURS (Multi-Use Radio Service)

The Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS) uses channels in the 151 – 154 MHz spectrum range. The most common use of MURS channels is for short-distance, two-way communications using small, portable hand-held radios that function similar to walkie-talkies.

You may operate a MURS transmitter at any location the FCC regulates radio communications, subject to certain restrictions. A MURS transmitter must be certified by the FCC.

None of the MURS channels are assigned for the exclusive use of any user. You must cooperate in the selection and use of the channels in order to make the most effective use of them and to reduce the possibility of interference.

No MURS transmitter shall, under any condition of modulation, transmit more than 2 watts transmitter power output.

The usual range of communications between MURS stations is less than a few miles; connecting a MURS radio to an external antenna can extend the range to ten miles or more. MURS stations are not allowed to be interconnected with the public switched telephone network. A station identification announcement is not required to be transmitted. Other restrictions on the use of MURS stations also apply.

FRS (Family Radio Service)

A short-distance two-way voice communication service, with limited data applications, between low power hand-held radios, for facilitating individual, family, group, recreational and business activities.

FRS units normally communicate with other FRS units, but may also be used to communicate with General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) stations.

Each FRS transmitter is designed that the power on channels 8 through 14 does not exceed 0.5 Watts and on channels 1 through 7 and 15 through 22 does not exceed 2.0 Watts.  No detachable or external antennas are allowed.

FCC: Title 47 Chapter I Subchapter D Part 95 Subpart B   [FRS Section]

Table notes

1. Shared FRS and GMRS simplex.
2. Shared FRS and GMRS simplex; GMRS repeater output.
3. GMRS repeater input. The output frequency of this repeater input is the input frequency minus 5 MHz.
4. FRS transmissions are limited to bandwidth of 11 kHz with a transmitter deviation of +/- 2.5 kHz. Channels are on 12.5 kHz centers.
5. GMRS transmissions may have a bandwidth of 16 kHz with a transmitter deviation of +/- 5.0 kHz. Channels are on 25 kHz centers.
6. GMRS transmissions are limited to a bandwidth of 11 kHz with a transmitter deviation of +/- 2.5 kHz. Channels are on 12.5 kHz centers.
7. National GMRS calling channel (CTCSS tone 141.3 Hz).

FCC: Title 47 Chapter I Subchapter D Part 95 Subpart E  [GMRS section]

Which GMRS/FRS radios are Legal in US and Canada?

It's simple:

Every GMRS or FRS radio has to be approved by the authorities of the country where you will be using the radio.   Industry Canada (IC) and the FCC in the US.  There are also rules for usage.   So don't cross the border and use your radio until you make sure you have the right equipment.

• If the radio does not have an IC number, it’s not approved for use in Canada.
• If the radio does not have an FCC number, it’s not approved for use in the US.

Also be aware of the US Line A/C and Canada Line B/D rules.  See the Frequency Coordination with Canada Below 470 MHz FAQ 

GMRS Line A Frequency Coordination with Canada Below 470 MHz
(Channel 19 & 21)

Your GMRS license recites the following clause which is regarding GMRS Channel 19 & 21, and any associated repeaters:

Effective 2/16/1999 the GMRS rules have been amended and you may operate on any of the primary or interstitial channels shown in section 95.29. Exception: Licensees who operate North of Line A and East of Line C may not operate on channels 462.650 MHZ, 467.650 MHZ, 462.700 MHZ and 467.700 MHZ unless your previous license authorized such operations.

• Line A is an imaginary line within the US, approximately paralleling the US-Canadian border. To the north of Line A, FCC coordination with Canadian authorities is generally required in the assignment of frequencies.
• Line C is an imaginary line in Alaska approximately paralleling the Alaskan-Canadian border. To the east of Line C, FCC coordination with Canadian authorities is generally required in the assignment of frequencies.

See if 19 & 21 are prohibited at your location with this FCC Interactive Map 

FCC Article about the Coordination     FCC Section 90.7 (Definitions)

So, in the example below, folks in the area between Des Moines WA which is south of Seattle and all the way to the Canadian Border Cannot use GMRS channel 19 & 21 without breaking FCC regulations.

Line A example from the interactive map:

HAM Radio Line A reference

In the 70 cm band:

Freezing Weather Suggestions

Before the weather gets to freezing temperatures it helps to use a silicon based product like Endust which is available on Amazon (and many grocery stores)  on the Rubber door seals of your car and rig.   

We spray it onto a paper towel and then apply it the length of the seal on the door and  the frame seal.  This also helps with slides and hatches.  

It helps clean the seal of dirt and residue, and applies a thin silicon coat. 

That coat helps keep the ice from sealing the door shut..  and not ripping the seal when you do get it open.

We find that one application generally lasts the entire winter.

Alan K.