EMS 10 CODES & COLOR CODES

To ensure effective communication within the EMS team, we utilize a system of numeric codes known as 10 codes. These codes are essential tools for conveying information quickly and succinctly, especially during critical situations where clear communication is paramount. 

Why Are The 10 Codes Important?

• Clarity & Efficiency: In emergencies, clarity and efficiency are crucial. 10 codes provide a standardized way to communicate essential information without the need for lengthy explanations, ensuring that messages are conveyed quickly and accurately.

• Professionalism: Utilizing 10 codes demonstrates professionalism and proficiency in emergency communication protocols. It reflects our commitment to maintaining high standards of communication within EMS.

The list below details the commonly used 10 Codes and their translation, below that you will find the additional codes used to communicate pertinent information. All EMS Staff should be aware of these codes. Any questions regarding their use should be directed to an FTO during training. 

10-6 & 10-95

Two other commonly used 10 Codes that are not always listed for EMS are 10-6 and 10-95, knowing these codes can be useful when interacting with other staff and Law Enforcement Officers (LEO)

10-6  - Busy, Stand By Unless Urgent

If you are busy, and cannot talk on the radio for one reason or another, quickly conveying you are 10-6 allows other EMS Staff to know you need a moment. If the message is urgent it can still be conveyed, but in non-emergency situations waiting until the person who is 10-6 to give the go-ahead to continue is considered correct protocol. 

10-95 - Suspect/Suspect In Custody

LEO will often ask where the 10-95 or 95 is when they are referring to a suspect, or ask EMS to transport a 95. "Is the 95 upstairs?" The LEO is asking if the patient, who is a suspect, is upstairs.

Understanding The Difference Between 10-15, 10-19, & 10-76

10-15: Enroute to Hospital With Patient (If you are transporting an extra patient/patients you would say +1,+2, etc.)

• M02 is 10-15 +1 to Pillbox

• I have 2 patients and I'm returning to Pillbox

10-19: Transport back to the Hospital without a Patient

• Going to a call and it is Code 4 with no one there

• The scene is code 4 M02 is 10-19 to pillbox

10-76: En-Route

• M02 is 10-76 to the most recent call

• M02 is 10-76 to Sandy Hospital

• M02 Sandy Medical is code 4 10-76 back to Pillbox

Don't use 10-76 after a scene is Code 4, when you are returning to Pillbox, only when transitioning from one hospital to the next.