For others reading, be aware that acquiring a HAM license will assign you a callsign that, if looked up on the FCC website, reveals your full name and home address unless you take measures to avoid that, such as getting a PO Box.
If you only plan on using a HAM radio during times of emergency, such as the type indicated in the video, obtaining the license is more of a formality than a necessity. Though learning how to use HAM radio, and which frequencies to avoid, would be fruitful either way.
Unless you are being a jerk on the airwaves, or are actively jamming a HAM frequency, the FCC will not bother to ensure you are licensed, for HAM or GMRS.
Most repeater stations are sticklers for rules though, so you'll likely need a callsign to be able to use them.
For others reading, be aware that acquiring a HAM license will assign you a callsign that, if looked up on the FCC website, reveals your full name and home address unless you take measures to avoid that, such as getting a PO Box.
If you only plan on using a HAM radio during times of emergency, such as the type indicated in the video, obtaining the license is more of a formality than a necessity. Though learning how to use HAM radio, and which frequencies to avoid, would be fruitful either way.
Unless you are being a jerk on the airwaves, or are actively jamming a HAM frequency, the FCC will not bother to ensure you are licensed, for HAM or GMRS.
Most repeater stations are sticklers for rules though, so you'll likely need a callsign to be able to use them.