We discussed standardizing channels in a previous ARES net (and also at a recent WGARS meeting). Why? Consistency makes for an easier time dealing with unusual circumstances; not having to spend time and mental effort finding the right channel.
Even more important is to understand how to operate the radio. Here are a few items to be sure you know how to do:
Power
Obviously the most important thing to know how to do.
The Display
Do you know what all those little symbols on the display mean? At least the important ones? It's a good first step to figuring out why the radio isn't operating as expected. You can see what functions are turned on or off, like memory or VFO, tone, offset, annoying roger-beeps, etc. and from there know what you may need to do to resolve an issue.
VOX mode
First, In my opinion, don't use VOX mode unless life or limb is at risk, or a physical disability requires it. Background noise or a sneeze can set your radio to transmitting unexpectedly, and in many cases, cause harmful interference. But know how to control it, because you'll need to know how to disable it if it accidentally gets activated.
VFO/memory mode
If you accidentally (or purposefully) switched to VFO mode, do you know how to switch it back? Do you know how to use VFO mode in case you need to manually tune to a simplex frequency or setup an non-programmed repeater? Along with this, you'll need to know how to set frequency, offset, & tone.
Power Settings
Do you know how to change the power settings? The rule is you use the least amount of power necessary to successfully communicate (47 CFR - 97.313). Now, I know some just leave the power cranked up, because I've heard lids recommend to others they do that. It's bad on several fronts, as high-power puts more load on the electronics in your radio, particularly the final stages of the output. Lower power also minimizes any potential interference to others. But, most importantly, it's required under FCC regulations.
Lock/Unlock
Does your radio have lock/unlock functions? The lock functions can be useful, to help keep you from accidentally going off channel / frequency. On the other hand, you better know how to unlock for when you are ready to change frequency!
Name/Frequency mode
Radios often allow a channel to have a "Name", but that name is usually seven characters or less. I program a repeater's call sign when setting one up. Other frequencies get a short-hand name that seems good at the time, but is hard to decipher later. Being able to change from Name to Frequency display will allow you to find the proper channel if you know one or the other. I also carry a printed list of channels, a description, and the frequency as well as a copy in my phone.
Finally
We're all guilty of getting caught short trying to remember these types of things, especially if we have a variety of different radios we're using. Nonetheless, we can make the effort to take time now and again to learn how to control the important features of a radio and eventually master them.
