Effective Date: 2023-10-14
Police 10-codes are a system of communication commonly used by law enforcement agencies in the United States. These codes are often used on police radio frequencies to convey information quickly and discreetly. Here's a list of some common police 10-codes organized by categories and explanations of when or how they could be used:
10-4: Affirmative, message received.
10-6: Busy, stand by.
10-8: In-service, available for calls.
10-9: Repeat your last transmission.
10-10: Negative, no further assistance needed.
10-20: Location, asking for a current location.
10-22: Disregard, disregard previous transmission.
10-41: Beginning tour of duty.
10-42: Ending tour of duty.
10-33: Emergency traffic, all units stand by.
10-99: Officer needs assistance, urgent help required.
10-46: Accident, non-injury.
10-50: Accident, with injuries.
10-80: Pursuit in progress.
10-85: Requesting tow truck.
10-96: Mental subject, person with a mental disorder.
10-14: Prowler, suspicious person.
10-29: Check for wanted, person or vehicle.
10-32: Person with a gun.
10-64: Sexual assault.
10-89: Bomb threat.
Fire and EMS Codes:
10-7A: Out of service, assisting other agency (fire/EMS).
10-55: Intoxicated driver.
10-61: Suspect in custody.
10-90: Alarm activation, possible burglary.
Code 1: This code indicates a routine call or a non-emergency situation. It means that the officers can respond without using their lights and sirens.
Code 2: This code signifies an urgent call, but not an emergency. Officers may respond quickly, but they may not need to use lights and sirens.
Code 3: This is typically used to convey an emergency situation. It means officers should respond immediately with lights and sirens to the location.
Code 4: This code is used to confirm that a situation is under control or that no further assistance is required at a scene.
Code 5: This code is used to request a "welfare check" or to check on the well-being of an individual. It may also be used for "stakeouts" or surveillance operations (stay out of the area).
Code 6: This code is used to indicate that officers are busy or occupied with a specific task or call.
Code 7: This code signifies that an officer needs a restroom or meal break. It's often used to request a designated location for this purpose.
Code 8: This code is used to indicate a request for a tow truck. It may be followed by specific details, such as the location and type of vehicle.
Code 9: This code is used to signal a request for a police vehicle to be sent to a specific location. It's often followed by the location details.
Code 10: This code is used to signify that law enforcement personnel are en route to a specific location or incident.
It's important to note that plain language communication is encouraged in many law enforcement agencies to improve clarity and understanding during radio transmissions, especially in emergency situations.