- Don’t use CB jargon, handles or practices on ham radio frequencies.

- Give your call sign to enter a conversation. Don’t say BREAK unless it is an emergency, then you say BREAK BREAK, according to ARRL practices.

- Use plain language on repeaters. Avoid CB 10-signals or excessive Q-Signals. During conversations, pause just briefly to see if anyone else wants to join in, or maybe needs to make an important call. If it is a really private conversation use simplex or a phone.

- Wait for the tone after you let up on the mike, otherwise you may cause the machine to "time-out" because of an excessively long transmission of 3 minutes or more. Then you will have to wait for it to restore. It’s called, "The alligator got you." It’s a protective feature in event of a stuck transmitter or other event which might cause overheating.

You only need to wait for the tone, not for the squelch tail to drop off.

- ARRL says to keep conversations "reasonably short" on repeaters. If you need to make a long-winded talk go to simplex. As ARRL puts it, "A repeater is not a soap-box".

- You must give your call at least every 10 minutes and at the end of your contact. If you are talking, and the repeater ID’s, it may be a clue for you to give your call also.

- Transmitting without identifying is illegal. This includes all kerchunking. If you are trying to see if the repeater or your rig is working, say "N1KB Testing", for example.

- During rush hours or other busy times, try to give preference to mobile stations which may need to make an important contact, ask directions or maybe even call for help.

- With the OARS repeater, don’t forget to allow for the "kerchunk" filter if the machine has been quiet for 10 minutes or longer. If you make a call and the machine immediately ID’s it may mean the filter caught you. You may have to repeat your call, holding the button down for 3 seconds before talking.

- Do not use excessive wattage when making a transmission. Use only the amount of power needed to make good, solid contacts. This is a long-standing amateur radio policy.

- Become familiar with the OARS severe weather policy which may limit repeater use.

- The repeater is for use by ladies and gentlemen. Avoid arguments, criticism, political debates or other traffic which might cause hard feelings for another. Courtesy is a must.

- There are many people listening to the repeater besides hams.