Posted by Baofeng UK on 12th Jan 2026
UK Emergency Comms Guide: Why Baofeng is the Ultimate Survival Radio
The Grid Is Fragile. Storm Goretti Proved It.
In January 2026, Storm Goretti caused significant power outages and infrastructure damage across the UK, particularly in the South West of England. With record gusts of 99mph recorded at St Mary’s Airport, thousands were left in the dark.
📅 Date: January 13, 2026
⚡ Power Outage Status:
- Current: ~1,250 properties still offline (Primary area: Helston, Cornwall).
- Peak: Over 65,000 properties lost power at the height of the storm.
- Restoration: Engineers have restored 150,000+ customers. Staff drafted in from as far as Lincolnshire.
📍 Regional Impact:
- Cornwall & Scilly: Red weather warning issued.
- Midlands & Wales: 10,000+ outages in Shropshire/Mid-Wales due to snow and ice.
- Water Supply: Power failure at Wendron treatment works left 3,000 homes without water.
In 2026, relying solely on a mobile phone for safety is a risk you cannot afford to take.
This is why demand for Emergency Two-Way Radios is surging across the UK. Whether it's for floods, heavy snow, or extended power cuts, a Baofeng radio is the ultimate "Grid-Down" insurance policy. It works when nothing else does.
🚨 Why Mobile Phones Fail
Mobile phones rely on a complex network of towers and power grids. If one link breaks, the network fails. Two-way radios are "Point-to-Point." They don't need a tower, a subscription, or the National Grid to work.
The Golden Rule: "If the power goes out, the signal goes out."
Residents confronting damage in Cornwall.
The P.A.C.E. Survival Plan
Professional survivalists and military personnel use the P.A.C.E. method for communication. You should too.
P - Primary
Mobile Phone. Great when it works, but the first to fail.
A - Alternate
Internet/Wifi. Usually fails alongside power.
C - Contingency
Baofeng Radio. Independent, long-range, and battery-operated. Your lifeline.
E - Emergency
Whistle/Signal. Last resort for close range.
What Makes a "Survival Ready" Radio in 2026?
- High Power (10W+): You need to punch through heavy rain and obstacles.
- Alternative Charging (USB-C): If mains power is out, you need to charge from a Solar Panel or Power Bank.
- Waterproof (IP68): UK emergencies often involve rain or flooding.
Quick Comparison: Top Survival Radios
| Model | Role | Waterproof? | Charging | Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UV-5RH Pro | Best Overall | Splash Proof | USB-C Direct | High (10W) |
| UV-98 PRO | Flood/Rain | IP68 (Submersible) | Cradle | High (8W) |
| UV-32 | Long Range | Rugged | USB-C Battery | High (10W) |
| BF-888S | Family Backup | No | USB Lead | Low (0.5W) |
1. The Ultimate Prepper Radio: UV-5RH Pro
Why it saves lives: The UV-5RH Pro is our top recommendation for one reason: USB-C Charging. In a long-term blackout, you can recharge this radio using the same solar power bank you use for your phone. Combined with its massive 10W output, it ensures you can reach help when it matters most.
Key Survival Feature: "One Touch Frequency Search" lets you instantly scan and copy active frequencies from emergency services or nearby groups.
Add to Emergency Kit
2. Best for Flood & Storms: UV-98 PRO
Why it saves lives: If you live in a flood-risk area or plan to use radios in torrential rain, this is the only choice. The UV-98 PRO is IP68 rated, meaning it can be fully submerged in water and keep working. Standard radios will short-circuit in heavy storms; this one won't.
Shop Waterproof Radio
3. The Rural Lifeline: UV-32 GPS
Why it saves lives: If you are stranded in the Scottish Highlands or a remote rural area, distance is your enemy. The UV-32 is engineered with a high-gain antenna system designed to push signals over hills.
Key Feature: On-Screen GPS. Read your coordinates to rescue teams even when Google Maps is offline.
Shop Long Range GPS
4. Best for Neighbours: BF-888S PMR446
Why it saves lives: While high-power radios connect you to the outside world, the BF-888S connects you to your immediate surroundings. It is 100% Licence-Free and incredibly simple—just turn it on and talk. Ideal for handing out to elderly neighbours or children.
Shop Family BackupBuying for the Whole Family? Save Big on Multi-Packs
Don't just buy one. Ensure every member of your household has a lifeline.
💡 Critical Upgrade: Bluetooth Programming
In an emergency, repeater frequencies change. You likely won't have a working computer to reprogram your radio.
The Solution: The BT-A1D Bluetooth Adapter allows you to program your radio directly from your smartphone using the OLA App.
Get Bluetooth Adapter
Maintenance: Long-Term Storage Tips
- Don't store at 100%: Store lithium batteries at 60-80%.
- Remove the battery: Do not leave it attached to the radio.
- Check every 3 months: Top up the charge.
The Ultimate UK Comms "Go-Bag" Checklist
- 1x Primary Radio: UV-5RH Pro.
- 1x High Gain Antenna: NA-771.
- 1x Spare Battery: Cold weather drains batteries fast.
- 1x Bluetooth Adapter: For phone programming.
- Printed Frequency List: Paper backup.
Read our Step-by-Step Guide to UK Ham Radio Licences
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a Baofeng radio without a licence in an emergency?
The law states you need a licence. However, in a genuine "Threat to Life" situation where no other communication is available, Emergency Powers generally allow you to use any means to call for help. We strongly recommend getting licensed now to ensure you know how to operate the equipment.
2. How long will the battery last?
A UV-5RH Pro battery lasts 18-24 hours. For blackouts, use USB-C charging.
3. Who can I talk to?
Local repeaters, RAYNET, or neighbourhood watch groups.