Message procedure

To make the most of the radio system, messages should follow well defined lines using standard phrases which convey the senders exact meaning to the receiver with minimal airtime.

Rhythm – ordinary conversation has rhythm. During radio transmissions this should be preserved as it assists with intelligibility. Convey the message in short, complete phrases which make sense. Allow the speech to flow naturally and avoid pausing between each word or using “er” or “um”.

Speed – Speak steadily at a medium pace in order to increase the receiver’s ability to understand what you are saying. Being asked to repeat wastes valuable time. It’s useful to remember however that if the message requires writing down longer pauses between phrases will be required.

Volume – Speak more distinctly than normal speech but do not shout. Words should be equal in stress and volume in order to ensure phrases make sense. Try not to drop the volume towards the end of phrases as this could lead to missed information. Always try to speak close to the microphone to avoid ‘fading’.

Pitch – High pitched voices are transmitted more clearly over radio. Therefore, try to pitch your voice as high as you can. Try not to change pitch mid transmission as this can affect the transmitted message.

Standard Phrases in common use within the ambulance service

Control – A central point for all units to communicate with and through. You will likely communicate through a designated dispatcher covering units within a specific geographical area.

Call sign – The identifiable name or set of numbers given to a person or vehicle (for example: North 1303)

Affirmative – To verify a request or information to be correct.

Negative – To deny a request or information to be incorrect

Roger – Used to indicate that you have acknowledged and understood a message.

Standby – Used by control to acknowledge a message, however, to wait for further instruction or control will call you back

Stand Off – Used to advise a unit NOT to proceed to scene and to maintain a safe distance often due to a potential hazard identified over the phone.

Over – To indicate that the sender has finished their message and is now waiting for the receiver to reply.

Out – ONLY USED BY CONTROL. This marks the end of a conversation “Control out”.

Stand Down – Stop running on the current detail/incident and await further instruction.

Say Again – This is used when the last message has not been understood. The word “repeat” is NOT to be used as this can lead to confusion.

Emergency – Used only by control and indicates an urgent message is to follow which must be acted upon immediately.

Priority – Urgent information needs to be passed from the sending party – for example at a cardiac arrest if requesting additional resources.

Parking – This can be used if the unit needs to pull over prior to receiving a message.

Go ahead, over – Used by a unit or control to indicate that they are now ready to receive or record a message.

All Mobiles standby – Used by control to keep all units off the air while they await instructions.