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The CCRadio3is a powerful emergency radio, with AM/FM. NOAA weather, and 2 meter ham bands.
Having the survival essentials and a plan will go a long way towards protecting you and your family during a disaster. But staying informed is also important as you weigh your options and make critical decisions. But what if you encounter a widespread emergency that takes out the usual information sources? Fortunately, there are preparations that you can make that will help keep you and your family informed, no matter the crisis.
In this article, we examine the C. Crane 3 home long-range radio and discuss how an AM/FM radio can keep you connected even when all the technology around you starts to fail.
The Set-Up:
You have food, water, security, etc. You even have an extensive bug-out-bag (BOB). But, many of these preparations assume that no matter how bad it gets, help is on the way. Think of FEMA, the National Guard, and a variety of private/public aid organizations. Most of these organizations recommend that you have a “72-Hour Kit,” usually on the assumption that help will arrive within 72 hours. But what if no one is coming to help, and the crisis extends beyond what you anticipated. Imagine no power grid, no phone or cell service, no internet, and no contact with the outside world. How would you stay informed?
If you think it can’t happen, consider the following: On April 28, 2025, a major power blackout affected parts of Spain and Portugal. The outages interrupted telecommunications, transportation, and emergency services. Millions were left without access to news or other forms of vital information. With no cell service or internet, some people reported that their only access to the outside world was on their car radio. Many others waited in darkness to find out what was happening and what they could expect in the coming days.
The CC Radio 3 can operate on household D-size batteries or an external power source.
Radio, Then and Now:
Back in the “old” days, 1970s and 80s, most people got their news and information from TV and radio. Remember radio? Today, most of us stay connected via cell service or the internet. However, some of these services are usually the first to fail during a crisis. Ironically, in this age of technological advancements, radio is still a reliable and effective choice for obtaining information, especially during an emergency. Here’s why:
- AM/FM stations broadcast news, weather updates, and emergency alerts from local, regional, and national sources.
- Access to critical information. Think of evacuation notices, shelter locations, or emergency resources in your area.
- Unlike cell towers or internet networks, which may be vulnerable due to physical damage, power outages, or network overload, radio infrastructure is often much more robust and can continue broadcasting even during emergencies.
- AM signals can travel hundreds of miles, especially at night, offering users access to distant stations if local ones are offline.
- NOAA weather band channels can provide real-time weather alerts and forecasts.
- AM/FM radios are power-efficient and can run on common household batteries for days or even weeks.
- AM/FM radios are simple and user-friendly and require no internet connection, technical knowledge, complicated set-up, licenses, or subscriptions. Just turn them on and start listening.
- Radios are a cost-effective option to stay connected.
The exceptional reception range provides clear reception across urban and rural areas. Connecting an external antenna will often help extend your range.
The C. Crane Radio 3:
The C. Crane Radio 3 (CCRadio3) is a powerful radio featuring exceptional reception across AM/FM, NOAA weather, and 2-meter ham bands (receive only). Users can stay informed, prepared, and connected, especially during emergencies. Here are some of the key features:
- Operates on AC or DC power. (4 D size batteries.) Runs approx. 170 hours at a moderate volume level with the display light and weather alert feature off.
- Exceptional AM reception with the Twin-Coil® Ferrite Antenna.
- External AM Antenna connection for extended range.
- AM, FM, NOAA Weather Band with Weather Alert, and the 2-Meter Ham Band.
- The display has a full backlight and three brightness levels, including an off feature to save battery life.
- Weight: 4 lbs. (without optional batteries) Size: 11″ W x 6.5″ H x 4″ D.
The CCRadio3 comes with a power cord, instruction manual, and a one-year limited warranty. Full specifications available on www.ccrane.com
Search for a list of regional stations, print and laminate that list for future reference.
Radio Stations:
Searching for radio stations is easy. You can use your radio’s “scan“ function to search for the most powerful signals, or you can tune in to specific frequencies. To find a list of stations that may be within listening range, you’ll need to do some planning.
There are a number of websites that allow you to search for stations by region. But you need to do this in advance. Please find a list of the stations, print it out, and laminate the list for future reference. Here are a few examples:
A quick search on your favorite search engine will yield many more results. The important thing is to obtain this information before you need it.
Bonus: Find a listing of the radio stations in the U.S. authorized to run 50 kW (50,000 watts) of power. This is the highest power authorized to any U.S. AM station. A quick search will yield many links, some sorted by state.
An external power supply will help you stay connected during prolonged power outages.
Wrap-Up
AM/FM radio is an excellent choice for staying informed during an emergency. It’s widely available, relatively inexpensive, user-friendly, simple to set up, and can deliver real-time news, information and advisories. AM/FM radios will usually work when other systems and technologies fail. If you don’t have a radio, get one as soon as possible and start learning how to get the most out of it. Also, research the available stations and print out and laminate the list. Doing this now will ensure you have the best chance of staying informed during a disaster.
About The Author
Richard is a retired attorney, an urban survival consultant, writer, firearms enthusiast, and freedom-loving American patriot. He’s the author of Surviving Doomsday: A Guide for Surviving an Urban Disaster, and The Quick Start Guide for Urban Preparedness. Richard’s books are available at Amazon and other fine retailers. You can connect with Richard on Twitter @SurvivingDoomsd
DISCLAIMER
The materials provided are for illustration and/or informational purposes only. Any use of the information contained in this article shall be solely at the reader’s risk.
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