For those that have and use a radio strap...

I've been doing a lot of studying and thinking lately about the benefits of using a radio strap. I've read the report from Fairfax, VA and read a lot of comments related to their use. Ever since I started in the fire service (all volunteer), I've always used the radio pocket provided on the outside of my turn out coat with not much thought about it. That's why they call it a "radio pocket" right? I have had several instances where my radio would fall out of the pocket when I would get down to go interior or just to grab something from the ground since the little flap is only secured by a small portion of the Velcro anyway. Another issue that always seems to happen at every fire I go to is getting the radio wet. I don't think a radio strap and holder would help the water issue out but who knows. I just like to try hard not to get the radio wet since they are a major pain to dry out afterwards and I always fear I will fry the electronics inside it (we use Motorola XTS 2500 portables on an 800MHz trunked system). Soon, I will be getting new turn out gear with a coat that is a zip up style and not the clips. That's also something I'm concerned about with getting the mic to come out from the top near my neck. What I would like to know from fellow firefighters that use a radio strap is what do you recommend from a brand or material perspective and how do you use your strap?

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Permalink Reply by Amy on July 3, 2016 at 9:56pm

Chance, I wear mine under my coat. My coat is Firedex, zip, no snaps. Getting the mic up and out is sometimes one of the most frustrating things. I take my mic, and clip it to my collar, by my left ear and then zip up. It doesn't always stay put, but when it does it's much easier. I wear my radio on my right. I don't have a mic holder on my coat, so it goes under my collar flap right in the middle and hangs loose there. I thought it would get in the way doing interior work, but it I haven't had a problem. There does not seem to be a perfect solution, but I am always looking for better ones!

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Permalink Reply by Chance Westfall on July 3, 2016 at 11:19pm

I also wear my radio on the right side. Personal preference for me is to try to keep the mic as close to my ear as possible so I can have a better chance of hearing it....but, the problem therein is not having many options to really achieve that on my coat. I do have a mic holder on my left side near the tool pocket (radio pocket lol) which I've been using. Only problem though is I always unintentionally key the mic when wearing an SCBA and air mask if I look down. Hopefully some day turnout manufacturers will incorporate some kind of system to make this work better for us.

For those that have and use a radio strap...

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