Emergency Scanner Frequencies

The emergency scanner frequencies listed here are for the United States. The range used in other countries may differ. Typically the emergency system frequencies (EMS) are configured by the cities and county municipalities.

Fire Frequencies

These are in the UHF bands from 470.000 MHz to 512.000 MHz. In some cases they are at the 866.000 to 869.000 MHz range. This includes local and regional dispatches. These ranges have been selected to prevent any conflict with other signals, particularly police events. This range also prevents conflict with passive dispatches.

Frequencies of the Police

The emergency scanner frequencies for the police are set on ultra high frequency (UHF) bands. The range is around 470.000 MHz to 512.000 MHz and 866.000 to 869.000 MHz. These high frequencies are only for safety related transmissions; the ordinary police communications are set at the VHF bands.

Frequencies of Medical Services

These function at high VHF levels, usually from 150.00 MHz to 174.00 MHz. They also have secondary VHF bands for the personal ground pager activities. If the medical facility has a helicopter pad, the hospital will also transmit at 470.000 MHz to 512.000 MHz.

Other Information

The spacing of these signals is wide so any potential communication problems are avoided. Usually however, an area will classify the frequencies on the basis of the radio communication type.

Selecting a Scanner

Majority of the models sold today can monitor these emergency services, but there are other things you have to consider when looking for a unit. For example, What if you are interested in listening to other frequencies?

There are other scanners out there than can pick up signals other than the emergency bands. The range of frequencies that can be picked up varies per model, so you need to conduct some research.

Portability

The portable units are compact enough they can fit your pocket. This will allow you to tune in to those fire, medical and police transmissions even when you are on the go. However, the portable units are usually more expensive compared to base units.

Some like to get a portable and base unit so they can have the best of both worlds. No matter which unit you buy, make sure to study how to program the device.

Listening to the emergency scanner frequencies, even the police, is legal. However, it is illegal to use any information you hear there for the commission of a crime or any other illegal activity.

Scanner Radio