What should be done if the VHF batteries show "LO BATT"?

When the VHF (Very High Frequency) radio displays "LO BATT," it indicates that the batteries have a low charge and may not be sufficient to maintain proper communication functionality. In critical situations, having a fully functional communication device is essential for safety and effective operations.

Replacing the batteries immediately ensures that the radio will operate reliably, allowing for continuous communication that is vital during wildland fire operations or other emergency scenarios. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of losing communication capabilities due to dead or insufficient batteries.

Charging the batteries could potentially help, but if they are already indicating low power, they may not hold a sufficient charge for extended use. Depending on the specific radio and its battery type, pressing the PTT (Push to Talk) button for longer may not solve the issue of low battery life and could also lead to further battery drain. Ignoring the warning is not advisable, as it's critical to address low battery indicators promptly to avoid communication failure.