Marine radio important for communication and safety.(PLAY!)(BOATING)(Column)

Byline: Jabbo Gordon

Boaters usually keep an ear tuned to their marine radios for a variety of reasons, if they have one. If they don't, they might consider obtaining one, even a handheld, if for no other reason than safety's sake.

For one thing, there is a weather channel that can advise you of any approaching squalls or other adverse weather conditions. Then there is Channel 16 which most people monitor for emergency information or to report an emergency.

Skippers can also establish communication with a dockmaster when pulling into a yacht club or a marina, by switching to a channel that the dockmaster prefers.

Then they can discuss slip …