Radios are a must-have for all ski patrols. Cell phones are too unreliable. They get wet or too cold and break or become useless. They lose their signal. Their batteries die. So it’s no wonder that ski patrols rely on push-to-talk two-way radios.
But not all two-way radios are made the same or include the same features. Some features are nice to have for ski patrols, while others are extremely helpful.
Below, we’ll go over the most important features and qualities of push-to-talk two-way radios for ski patrols.
Rugged
Ski patrollers have to withstand low temperatures, high winds, and moisture and so does their equipment. Therefore, the best push-to-talk two-way radios for ski patrols must be extremely durable, like the PTT-624G Rugged LTE Radio.
This radio is waterproof and can withstand submersion in three feet of water for up to thirty minutes, so you bet it can handle some snow and ice. You want to look for radios with a high IP rating, a rating that measures its resilience to dust and water. The most durable radios, like the PTT-624G Rugged LTE Radio, carry an IP68 rating.
Radios should also be tested to withstand heavy use and blunt force or falls.
We offer other durable and waterproof options on our website like the PTT-394G.
Long-distance
Long-distance is non-negotiable for ski patrols. Many ski resorts are large and patrollers may have to communicate across long distances. All Peak PTT radios use 4G LTE technology that provides virtually unlimited range.
Noise cancelation
Noise cancelation is a feature that every ski patrol should have on their radios. Snow blowers, loud lifts, and high winds can make messages unclear and communication difficult. Noise-canceling features, like those included in all Peak PTT radios, ensure that messages are always crystal clear, eliminating misunderstandings due to background noise.
Panic Button
A panic button is a life-saving feature that allows users to press a button in case they get in danger. Ski patrols often work in dangerous conditions. Lone workers who have to patrol areas off of groomed trails and provide avalanche control are at a particularly high risk of workplace injury or death.
In moments of danger, lone workers may only have a split second to press a button or be unable to speak. In these situations, a panic button is vital to get their emergency signal out and notify dispatchers of their location.
Multiple Channels
Multiple channels allow patrollers to segment their channels to avoid cross-talk. They can also use a mutual channel for all patrollers and/or all-mountain operation crews in case they need to send mountain-wide messages related to safety or security.
Check out these PEAKPTT two-way radios today: