If you're using radio communication, check the radio is switched on and on the correct channel; use the appropriate frequency for the event.

Once you've reported in, don't leave a radio unattended.

Radios consume battery power so if you're in a vehicle, run your engine regularly to recharge it.

Listen before you speak - others may have greater need of the airwaves, keep messages short and to the point, and speak only when necessary or when spoken to.

Work as part of a team - the radio operator will be the ears and mouth of the team - but remember that emergency calls take priority so if someone is calling for a doctor, that's not the time to ask how the team has done in the marshal's raffle.

Use your call sign and work through the radio Controller. Think about what you want to say before you press the PTT (Push To Talk) button, pause, then speak across the microphone rather than into it to avoid the noise of your breath distorting the transmission.

Be clear on what radio language to use and, most important, remember to release the button when you have finished so that others can speak.

Clear the airways as soon as possible. I you don't know the answer to a question, say so, or ask Control to "wait one" while you find out. If you've a long message - particularly one that includes a list or information which needs to be taken down - say "Break", pause for Control to note what you've said and to collect your own thoughts, then carry on.

In an emergency, judge the situation and do not over rate the urgency of your message. To gain priority over other callers precede your call sign with one of the following :

PRIORITY

Top priority. Confirmed injury requiring medical and/or rescue services

URGENT

Requires immediate action. Car in difficulty or suspected injury

SAFETY

Lowest priority. Messages concerning stage safety where a delay may be tolerated

And incidentally, when using a radio, remember there's very likely to be a spectator with a scanner listening in...