The effective range of the VHF-FM radio is up to _____ miles.

The effective range of VHF-FM radios is typically up to about 5 miles under normal operating conditions. This range can vary based on factors such as terrain, atmospheric conditions, and the height of the antennas used. VHF-FM radios are primarily line-of-sight communication devices, meaning that their effectiveness can be limited by obstacles like hills, buildings, or other geographical features.

In many scenarios, particularly in open water, 5 miles is a standard operational range where communication is reliable and clear. As one moves beyond this distance, the likelihood of signal loss or degradation increases, making other communication methods necessary for extended ranges.