What type of radio is small enough for a firefighter to carry at all times?

The portable radio is designed to be compact and lightweight, making it ideal for firefighters who need to maintain communication while being mobile at emergency scenes. Its small size allows firefighters to carry it easily on their person, ensuring they can communicate with their team and command regardless of their location. This is crucial in ensuring coordination and safety during firefighting operations.

In contrast, a base station radio is typically mounted in a fixed location, such as a fire station or command center, and is not suitable for on-the-go use by firefighters at the scene. A mobile radio, while also used for communication, is installed in vehicles and is not portable for individual firefighters. Stationary radios also do not fit the requirement as they are fixed in one location and not designed for personal carry.