Which of the following is a possible limitation of radio equipment that fire department personnel should be aware of?

• A. Global information systems cannot be used when using a Global Positioning System
• B. Some types of mobile data computers require a line of sight for GPS functionality
• C. Some types of radio equipment require a line of sight between the transmitter and receiver
• D. Some types of citizen band radios will only function if connected to a wireless broadband connection

Answer: (C)

Understanding how radio signals travel helps explain this limitation. Many radio systems used by fire departments rely on lines of sight between the transmitter and receiver. When there are obstacles—walls, floors, heavy equipment, or dense urban surroundings—the signal can be reflected, absorbed, or blocked, causing dead zones or degraded communication. That’s why some radio equipment requires a clear line of sight to work reliably; in practice, this is a major factor you plan for during incident operations, such as selecting channel, using repeaters, or repositioning personnel and equipment to maintain contact.

The other statements mix in areas not intrinsic to radio limitations. GIS and GPS interoperability isn’t about radio capability itself, and GPS functionality can be affected by obstructions but that’s a GPS/satellite issue rather than a radio equipment limitation. Citizen band radios and wireless broadband aren’t inherent limitations of standard fire department radio gear.