[net.auto] A Cheap Radar Detector

wetcw@pyuxa.UUCP (T C Wheeler) (06/28/84)

There has been a lot of traffic concerning radar detectors and
jammers of late.  I have one suggestion, which I am sure there
will be plenty of poo-pooers for, and that is get a cheap CB
radio.  STOP, before you start putting CB down, let me explain.
CB has changed a lot over the last 5 years.  No longer is it
full of BS artists and a lot of arguing.  I use a CB every day
to and from work.  It has saved me many many headaches, especially
in the mornings when the traffic seems to be at its worst.

All you have to do is monitor channel 19 to get the latest
information about the traffic ahead.  Many times I have been able to
avoid getting caught in traffic jams because someone up
ahead put out the word about some problem.  As far as finding
out about where radar is set up, everyone reports the comings
and goings of the 'bears' on the CB.  These reports are usually
recieved well before you get to the reported position.  At
least 2 miles before a radar detector can pick up the signal.

I notice that more and more people are putting CBs back in
their cars along the highways I travel.  About 90% of them
never talk, but listen to the traffic reports filtering in
along their route.  CBs are cheap, easy to install, and
legal everywhere.  They can also be a great help in an
emergency.  I have used mine to summon help when I broke
down and during our big March storm, to assist in passing
information about stranded people to the nearest emergency
center.

I won't even try to defend the few wackos that still find
their way on to the channel, but just say that I have learned
to tune them out.  I'm sure CB isn't everyones cup of tea,
but it is cheap and effective way to avoid radar traps and
10-car pileups in your path.
T. C. Wheeler