Midland’s emergency weather radio can keep you in the loop when you’re in a crisis.
You’ll find plenty of options on the market for these devices, and choosing the best one could make a difference.
Today, we’re reviewing the Midland ER310 Crank Radio to see if it’s the right choice for you.
Let’s tune in!
What is an Emergency Radio?
Emergency radios are a necessary piece of equipment when you’re headed out into the backcountry. Even at home, though, they may provide weather updates and alerts when the power is out. Adding one to your go bag or with your first aid kit can give you access to vital information during a disaster.
It’s easy to think your cell phone is good enough when things go sideways. However, when your battery is low, you still need to know what’s happening outside. If cell service is down or you’re out of reach, an emergency radio could be your lifeline.
These devices cover all regular AM and FM bands, and most have a weather radio where available. One of their key features is that they don’t need much juice to function. Designers made them to run as long as possible, even when power is out.
Most include some type of alternative energy source, either batteries, hand cranks, or solar. Newer versions also have USB connections to charge your other electronics.
Why Do You Need an Emergency Radio?
Natural disasters and power outages are common occurrences where an emergency radio is handy. If you live in a region where these happen regularly, they should be part of your backup plan.
In the United States, most pick up the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) bands. These are the primary means the government uses to communicate during a crisis.
Not only do they provide information, but they also have some valuable features if you’re stranded and needing help. Some will generate a tone that rescue dogs can hear or pulse an SOS signal searchers can detect. They’re essential whether you’re a regular camper or love getting out and boondocking your RV.
Midland also helps you communicate with friends and family: REVIEW: Midland X-Talker Two-Way Radios.
The Benefits of the Midland Emergency Radio
Midland produces several models of emergency radios for public use. The E+Ready ER310 is one of their most popular, and for good reason.
Easy to Use
When you’re in a crisis, the last thing you want is to have a complicated device you don’t know how to use. This radio is simple to operate with seven presets calibrated to standard weather frequencies. It can receive information from the NOAA bands as well.
Designers made sure that you’d be able to keep their emergency radio going as long as you need it. It comes with a solar panel, a hand-cranked generator, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and can also run on six AA batteries.
You won’t miss an alert, either. When new information comes through, an audible alarm sounds for one minute, along with a strobe and flashing LED screen.
The best part of these features is that you don’t have to set them up. They come pre-programmed from Midland, so your radio will work right out of the box.
Charge External Devices
As we mentioned, mobile devices aren’t reliable when the power is out. Usually, they have a limited battery, and you’ll need to recharge them. They’ll run down quickly, especially if you’re checking for updates frequently.
Midland’s emergency radio comes with two USB 2.0 ports for easy recharging. Because tablets and smartphones are important sources of information, you’ll want a device like this to keep them going. Make sure you have the right cables as part of your kit so you can stay connected.
You might also want a portable generator: 5 Best 50 Amp Generators For Hurricane Backup.
Silent Dog Whistle
In snowstorms, hurricanes, and earthquakes, first responders often use a canine assist to find you if you’re stranded. This unit includes a dog whistle that operates at high frequencies only they can hear. They can still laser in on your location even when there’s a lot of background noise.
Flashlight and Beacon Settings
If you’re lost at night and need something to get attention, Midland’s incorporated other functions in their radio to help. A flashlight with two brightness settings can help you find your way. Even in the daylight, buildings can go dark. You’ll love having a bright light to guide your way.
Search and rescue teams are easier to flag down because of the beacon settings. Triggering this function pulses SOS in Morse code so you can be seen from a distance.
The Disadvantages of the Midland Emergency Radio
While the Midland ER310 is a popular choice for emergency radios, it’s not perfect. The device comes with a few significant drawbacks.
Because the rechargeable battery isn’t a standard type, it can be hard to replace. Additionally, some users reported that it died much sooner than advertised. Another disadvantage is that the crank doesn’t provide much power. In tests, it ran a full minute short of competitors.
Outside of issues with the power sources, this option isn’t water resistant like some others. During weather-related emergencies, it won’t survive a dunking.
These may seem like small potatoes, all things considered, but they’re worth noting.
How Long Does the Midland Emergency Radio Last?
As advertised, this emergency radio lasts 32 hours when fully charged. While one reviewer reported only getting nine, that’s not typical. With multiple ways to keep the battery topped off, you should have what you need in a pinch.
According to the specs, you’ll get varying amounts of time from each backup source. Using the hand crank for one minute should get nine minutes of battery life. Also, one hour of solar charging yields 45 minutes of functionality.
The fact that it takes AA batteries should also give you some peace of mind. Pack them (and spares) in the same bag as your Midland radio so you’re not hunting for them when emotions are running high.
Price Check: Midland ER310 Crank Radio.
Is the Midland Emergency Crank Radio Worth It?
When you’re in a crisis, having access to critical information can make all the difference. Midland’s ER310 emergency radio is a good investment when you’re out of cell range in your RV or as part of your home kit.
Despite some reports showing a shorter battery life, you’ll be glad you have it when you need it. With multiple power sources and the ability to charge your devices, it’s worth checking out!
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