What is a 10-99 in Police Code?
Introduction
Police codes, also known as 10-codes, are a standardized system of communication used by law enforcement agencies around the world. These codes were developed in the 1920s to simplify radio communications and reduce the amount of time spent speaking on the radio. One of the most commonly used police codes is the 10-99 code, which is widely recognized and used by law enforcement agencies across the United States and beyond.
What is a 10-99 in Police Code?
A 10-99 in police code is a call for medical assistance. When an officer radios "10-99," it is an urgent request for an ambulance or medical unit to be dispatched to the location where the officer is located. This code is used to notify dispatchers and other units that a medical emergency has occurred and that medical help is needed immediately.
History of the 10-99 Code
The 10-99 code was first introduced in the 1920s as part of the standard 10-code system developed by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). The code was chosen because it was easy to remember and pronounce, and it was not easily confused with other codes. The 10-99 code quickly became widely adopted across the United States and other countries, and it has remained a standard part of police communication protocols to this day.
Variations of the 10-99 Code
While the 10-99 code is widely recognized, there are some variations that may be used depending on the jurisdiction or agency. For example, some agencies may use the code "10-91" instead of "10-99" to request medical assistance. It is important for officers to familiarize themselves with the codes used by their agency or jurisdiction to ensure accurate communication.
Examples of Use
The 10-99 code is used in a variety of situations, including:
- Injury or illness: An officer may radio "10-99" if an individual is injured or becomes ill while in their custody or at the scene of a crime.
- Medical emergency: An officer may use the 10-99 code to request medical assistance in the event of a medical emergency, such as a heart attack or stroke.
- Transportation: An officer may use the 10-99 code to request transportation for an individual who is injured or ill.
Table: Examples of Use
| Situation | Code Used |
|---|---|
| Injury or illness | 10-99 |
| Medical emergency | 10-99 |
| Transportation | 10-99 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 10-99 code is a standardized police code used to request medical assistance. This code is widely recognized and used by law enforcement agencies across the United States and beyond. Understanding the meaning and use of this code is essential for accurate communication and effective response in emergency situations.
Common Police Codes
Here is a list of common police codes used in addition to the 10-99 code:
- 10-1: Radio repair needed
- 10-2: Signal (use of lights or sirens)
- 10-3: Stop transmitting
- 10-4: Affirmative (yes)
- 10-5: Emergency traffic
- 10-6: Busy or in use
- 10-7: Out of service
- 10-8: Location unknown
- 10-9: Repeat previous message
- 10-10: Change of assignment
- 10-11: Unknown information
- 10-12: Unable to communicate
- 10-13: All units check in
- 10-14: Unit number unknown
- 10-15: Suspect in custody
- 10-16: Arrest made
- 10-17: Crime reported
- 10-18: Prisoner escaping
- 10-19: Prisoner riot
- 10-20: Information given over
- 10-21: Information wanted
- 10-22: Information received
- 10-23: Information refused
- 10-24: Stop and go
- 10-25: Identify yourself
- 10-26: Over to you
- 10-27: Change the frequency
- 10-28: All clear
- 10-29: Unit arriving at scene
- 10-30: Officer requesting assistance
- 10-31: Unit canceling request
- 10-32: No response from unit
- 10-33: Officer in need of help
- 10-34: Officer out of service
- 10-35: Unit being dispatched
- 10-36: Unit has arrived at scene
- 10-37: Unit has left the scene
- 10-38: Officer reporting information
- 10-39: Officer receiving information
- 10-40: Officer canceling request
- 10-41: Officer reassigning request
- 10-42: Officer requesting information
- 10-43: Officer receiving information
- 10-44: Officer canceling request
