Why Do They Call Police 12?
When you hear a broadcast or an announcement calling the police "12," it may seem confusing at first. Why do they refer to the police department or law enforcement agency by this number? In this article, we will explore the history and reasons behind the practice of calling police 12.
What does "12" Stand for?
The number "12" is derived from the International Police Phonetic Alphabet (IOPPA) system. This system uses a specific set of code words to represent police units, agencies, or calls. In the United States, the IOPPA system is widely used in emergency communication systems, such as 911 call centers and dispatch systems.
The IOPPA code word for "police" is "LIMA", which represents the letters L-I-M-A. However, for practical reasons, the IOPPA code word for police was simplified to "12". This numerical code is easier to remember and pronounce, making it more effective for dispatchers and emergency responders to communicate quickly and accurately.
History of the Practice
The practice of calling police 12 dates back to the early 20th century, when radio dispatching became a common practice for law enforcement agencies. In the 1920s and 1930s, police departments in the United States and other countries began using coded numbers to identify police units, agencies, or calls.
As radio communication technology improved, the need for a standard system to identify police calls became more pressing. In the 1940s and 1950s, the IOPPA system was developed to standardize police phonetics. The code word "12" for police became widely accepted and has remained a common practice ever since.
International Use of "12"
The use of "12" to refer to police is not unique to the United States. Many countries, including Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, also use the same IOPPA code. In the UK, the Metropolitan Police Service (London) uses the call sign "12" for emergency responses, while the City of London Police uses the call sign "99" for non-emergency responses.
Why Is the Practice Still Used?
Despite the advancement of communication technology, the practice of calling police 12 has remained a standard in many countries. Several reasons contribute to its persistence:
• Emergency Situations: In critical emergency situations, every second counts. The use of code words or numbers ensures rapid and accurate communication, helping responders to respond promptly.
• Standardization: The IOPPA system provides a standardized language for police communication, eliminating potential misunderstandings and errors.
• Efficiency: The use of numerical codes like "12" enables dispatchers to process and respond to calls more quickly, reducing response times.
• Legacy: The practice of calling police 12 has been adopted across many countries and regions, making it a recognized standard in the law enforcement community.
Conclusion
Calling police 12 may seem unusual at first, but it is a testament to the evolution of law enforcement communication systems. From its origins in the early 20th century to the present day, the IOPPA system and the code word "12" have become an integral part of emergency response systems around the world.
By understanding the history and significance of "12," we can better appreciate the importance of efficient and standardized communication in law enforcement. Whether in an emergency situation or during a routine call, the phrase "Police 12" has become a symbol of swift response and professionalism, ensuring the safety of citizens and communities worldwide.
