What should you do before communicating on the radio?

Before communicating on the radio, it is essential to know what you’re going to say. This preparation ensures that your communication is effective, concise, and clear, which is critical in high-pressure situations typically encountered in law enforcement. By having a clear message in mind, you can avoid confusion and convey necessary information promptly and accurately. This is particularly important in emergencies where time is of the essence and miscommunication can lead to dangerous outcomes.

Being prepared with a message also helps you to stay focused and reduces the likelihood of leaving out vital information or adding unnecessary details that can clutter the communication. While adjusting the volume, testing the microphone, and ensuring that others are listening are all important aspects of radio communication, having a clear understanding of your message takes precedence to ensure effective and efficient communication over the radio.