Why are the Police Called the 12?
The police have been known as the "12" for many years, but have you ever wondered why? The answer to this question lies in the early days of police radio communication. In this article, we will delve into the history of police radio communication and explore the origins of the term "12".
Early Days of Police Radio Communication
The use of radio communication by the police dates back to the early 20th century. In the 1920s, the police department in Chicago was one of the first to adopt radio communication as a means of communicating with its officers. The department’s chief of police, Jeremiah A. McCarthy, was a strong advocate for the use of radio communication and saw its potential as a tool for improving communication and responding to emergencies.
Contents
**The Introduction of the “12” System
In the 1940s, the police department in New York City adopted a system of using code numbers to identify police stations and units. The code system was designed to ensure that police officers and dispatchers could quickly and efficiently communicate with each other without the need for verbal descriptions.
How the Code System Worked
Here is an example of how the code system worked:
| Code Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Central Station |
| 2 | First Precinct |
| 3 | Second Precinct |
| … | … |
| 12 | All Units |
When a police officer wanted to call for backup or request assistance, they would simply call the dispatch center and say "12". This would alert all available police units in the area to respond to the emergency.
**The Evolution of the “12” System
Over time, the "12" system became standard practice across the United States and Canada. The term "12" became synonymous with the police department as a whole, and was often used as a way to refer to the department or its officers.
Why the "12" System Was Effective
So, why was the "12" system so effective? Here are a few reasons:
• Ease of Use: The "12" system was simple and easy to use. Officers could quickly and easily call for backup or assistance by saying "12", without having to use lengthy verbal descriptions.
• Efficiency: The code system allowed dispatchers to quickly and efficiently respond to calls, without having to listen to lengthy descriptions of the situation.
• Unification: The "12" system provided a common language for police officers and dispatchers across the United States and Canada, making it easier for them to communicate and respond to emergencies.
**Conclusion
In conclusion, the police are called the "12" because of the early days of police radio communication and the introduction of the code system. The term "12" has become synonymous with the police department and is often used as a way to refer to the department or its officers. The "12" system was effective because it was simple, efficient, and provided a common language for police officers and dispatchers.
