What will occur if you come in contact with or are within two inches of the antenna when the transmitter is keyed?

Coming into contact with or being within two inches of a transmitting antenna when it is keyed can result in radio frequency (RF) burns. This occurs due to the high levels of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the antenna. When the transmitter is active, it generates RF energy that can cause heating of body tissues, similar to how microwave ovens work at a different frequency.

The risk of RF burns increases significantly when you are in close proximity to the antenna. The skin and underlying tissue can absorb this energy, leading to burns that can range from mild to severe, depending on the duration of exposure and the power level of the transmission. Understanding the dangers of RF exposure is crucial for safety around communication equipment, especially in tactical environments where such equipment is frequently used. This highlights the importance of maintaining a safe distance from transmitting antennas to avoid any potential harm.