RADIO ETIQUETTE
- The CB Radio is used for voice communications only. It is not to be used for music.
- It is customary when switching the Radio on, to listen for at least the duration of one normal “over” before transmitting.
- If you decide that you would like to join in, just make sure you don’t talk over anyone, preferably between “overs”.
- Adherence to these guidelines ensures that you don’t obliterate what might be an important message and that you don’t irritate other users.
RECOMMENDED MINIMUM EQUIPMENT (Trip Dependent)
- Suitable recovery points at the FRONT and REAR of the Vehicle
- Snatch Strap and damper
- Gloves
- Two rated shackles (3.25t min Bow or Dee)
- Shovel (long handled recommended)
- Car first Aid Kit
- Radio communications
- Fire extinguisher
- Air Compressor
TRIP & CONVOY PROCEDURES
Start
- At the commencement of the trip, the Trip Leader will ensure all trip participants have put their details on the Trip Sheet, including passengers and visitors.
- The TL will outline the plan for the trip and any other relevant details such as planned stops, activities, comfort stops etc.
- provide details of the convoy order, nominate a vehicle to be last in the convoy (Tail End Charlie) and nominate a Scribe to record the trip details.
- advise the communication channel to be used (either 10 or 14) and do a radio check on departure
- check vehicles have necessary recovery equipment on board and they are suitable for the trip rating.
- If a Personal Details form is required, all relevant documentation to be completed and handed to TL in a sealed envelope before departure.
Convoy Communications
- Convoy communication for our club is UHF Channel 10 or Channel 14 as an alternative or as directed by TL.
- If you are unable to make radio contact, flash your headlights onto the vehicle ahead. This is a signal for the rest of the convoy to stop.
- Keep unnecessary chatter on the radio to a minimum when navigating difficult areas.
- If in any doubt of the best / safest way to proceed through hazards / obstacles, ask the Trip Leader or more experienced driver for advice. Remember you probably won’t be the only one experiencing difficulty.
- Acknowledge all radio calls from the Trip Leader.
Travelling
- Keep the vehicle behind you in view at all times and at any decision point (corner, deviation or obstacle):
- Wait for the following vehicle
- Indicate where to go (use indicators if appropriate)
- When acknowledgment is received, then proceed
- Drive at your COMFORTABLE and SAFE speed.
- When travelling on a club run all vehicles must switch on their headlights and keep them on while travelling in the convoy. Fog lights are NOT to be lit.
- Generally keep 4-6 vehicle lengths distance between vehicles and keep the convoy moving.
- On steep inclines / obstacles – proceed one vehicle at a time
- On very steep or difficult terrain – call the next vehicle through when you are clear
- All gates are to be left as they were found. The Trip Leader is responsible for ensuring that the last vehicle (Tail End Charlie) knows to leave the gate open or closed.
- Vehicles should not leave the convoy other than in exceptional circumstances and before doing so must obtain approval from the Trip Leader.
- Remember you are responsible for the vehicle behind you!
At all times abide by road rules and regulations and drive in a manner consistent with the Four Wheel Drivers’ Code of Ethics.