Bronx: 553.9 Hz
Brooklyn: 470.5 Hz
Manhattan: 349.0 Hz
Queens: 339.6 Hz
Staten Island: 321.7 Hz
Unit Tone
The unit tone is a combination of two tones that are played for about 3 seconds each, with a pause of about 1 second between them. The unit tone is used to indicate which units are assigned to respond to the call. Each unit has a unique unit tone that corresponds to its type and number. For example, the unit tone for Engine 1 is 378.6 Hz and 422.1 Hz, while the unit tone for Ladder 1 is 378.6 Hz and 470.5 Hz. The unit tones are based on a system of codes that are derived from the unit numbers and types. The codes and their corresponding frequencies are as follows:
CodeFrequency (Hz)
0378.6
1422.1
2470.5
3524.8
4584.8
5651.9
6726.8
7810.2
A (Engine)-0-
B (Ladder)-2-
C (Battalion)-4-
D (Division)-6-
E (Special Unit)-7-
To calculate the unit tone, the following steps are followed:
The unit number is converted to a three-digit number by adding leading zeros if necessary.
The first digit of the unit number is replaced by the code for the unit type.
The second and third digits of the unit number are replaced by the frequencies that correspond to their codes.
The resulting frequencies are played in ascending order, separated by a pause.
For example, to calculate the unit tone for Engine 1, the following steps are followed:
The unit number is converted to a three-digit number: 001.
The first digit of the unit number is replaced by the code for the unit type: A01.
The second and third digits of the unit number are replaced by the frequencies that correspond to their codes: A78.
The resulting frequencies are played in ascending order, separated by a pause: 378.6 Hz and 422.1 Hz.
Purpose and Benefits of Fdny Dispatch Tones
Fdny dispatch tones serve several purposes and benefits for the FDNY and its firefighters. Some of them are:
They provide a quick and clear way of communicating the information about the call and the response units.
They reduce the need for verbal communication, which can be affected by background noise, radio interference, or human error.
They allow the firefighters to prepare for the call while the tones are playing, by putting on their gear, checking their equipment, and getting ready to board the apparatus.
They create a sense of urgency and alertness among the firefighters, as they know that a call is coming in and they have to respond.
They enhance the safety and efficiency of the response, as the firefighters know exactly what type and location of the emergency they are facing, and which units are going with them.
They foster a sense of pride and identity among the firefighters, as they recognize their own unit tones and those of their fellow units.
Fdny Dispatch Tones in Popular Culture
Fdny dispatch tones have become a part of the popular culture, as they have been featured in various media forms, such as movies, TV shows, books, music, and video games. Some examples of media that have used or referenced fdny dispatch tones are:
The movie Backdraft, which depicts the lives of Chicago firefighters and features fdny dispatch tones in some scenes.
The TV show Rescue Me, which follows the personal and professional lives of New York City firefighters and uses fdny dispatch tones as part of its soundtrack.
The book Report from Engine Co. 82, which is a memoir of a Bronx firefighter and includes descriptions of fdny dispatch tones.
The song Firefighter Anthem, which is a tribute to firefighters and samples fdny dispatch tones in its intro.
The video game Grand Theft Auto IV, which is set in a fictional version of New York City and features fdny dispatch tones when the player drives a fire truck.
Conclusion
Fdny dispatch tones are an essential part of the FDNY's operations, as they provide vital information and guidance to the firefighters who respond to emergencies. They are also a symbol of the FDNY's history, culture, and tradition, as they reflect the values and spirit of the fire service. Fdny dispatch tones have become widely recognized and appreciated by the public, as they have been featured in various forms of media and entertainment. Fdny dispatch tones are more than just sounds; they are the voice of the FDNY.
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