Why is the Police Called 12?
The police are often referred to as "12" in many countries, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom. This term is commonly used in emergency situations, such as when someone needs to report a crime or request assistance from the authorities. But have you ever wondered why the police are called "12"? In this article, we’ll explore the history and reasons behind this phenomenon.
The Origins of "12"
The term "12" originated in the early days of radio communication, when police departments used radio frequencies to communicate with each other. In the 1920s and 1930s, police departments began using radio frequencies to dispatch officers to emergency calls. These frequencies were typically assigned by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and were used by police departments across the country.
The Significance of the Number 12
So, why was the number 12 chosen specifically? The answer lies in the early days of radio communication. In the 1920s and 1930s, radio frequencies were assigned in a specific range, known as the "VHF" (Very High Frequency) range. This range included frequencies between 30 and 300 megahertz. The police department in Chicago, Illinois, was one of the first to use radio communication, and they assigned the frequency 12.375 megahertz to their police radio system.
The Spread of "12"
As other police departments began to adopt radio communication, they too started using the frequency 12.375 megahertz. This frequency became known as the "police band" and was used by police departments across the country. Over time, the term "12" became synonymous with the police department, and it was used to refer to the police in general.
Why "12" and Not Another Number?
So, why was the number 12 chosen specifically, and not another number? There are a few theories:
- Easy to remember: The number 12 is easy to remember, and it’s a common number that’s often associated with emergency services.
- Radio frequency: The frequency 12.375 megahertz was a common frequency used by police departments, and it became associated with the police department.
- History: The term "12" has a rich history, dating back to the early days of radio communication. It’s a term that’s been passed down through generations, and it’s become an integral part of police culture.
The Modern Era
Today, the term "12" is still used to refer to the police department, although it’s not as widely used as it once was. With the advent of modern technology, such as cell phones and emergency response systems, the need for a specific frequency or term to refer to the police has decreased. However, the term "12" remains an important part of police culture and is still used in many emergency situations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the police are called "12" because of the early days of radio communication, when police departments used radio frequencies to communicate with each other. The frequency 12.375 megahertz was assigned to the police department in Chicago, Illinois, and it became a common frequency used by police departments across the country. Over time, the term "12" became synonymous with the police department, and it’s still used today to refer to the police in general.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is the police called 12?: The police are called "12" because of the early days of radio communication, when police departments used radio frequencies to communicate with each other.
- What is the significance of the number 12?: The number 12 is significant because it was assigned to the police department in Chicago, Illinois, and it became a common frequency used by police departments across the country.
- Why is the term "12" still used today?: The term "12" is still used today because it’s an important part of police culture and is still used in many emergency situations.
Table: Radio Frequencies Used by Police Departments
| Frequency | Description |
|---|---|
| 12.375 MHz | Police band frequency used by police departments across the country |
| 151.275 MHz | VHF frequency used by police departments in the United States |
| 154.6 MHz | UHF frequency used by police departments in the United States |
Bullets List: Important Points
• The term "12" originated in the early days of radio communication, when police departments used radio frequencies to communicate with each other.
• The frequency 12.375 megahertz was assigned to the police department in Chicago, Illinois, and it became a common frequency used by police departments across the country.
• The term "12" became synonymous with the police department, and it’s still used today to refer to the police in general.
• The term "12" is an important part of police culture and is still used in many emergency situations.
• The police department in Chicago, Illinois, was one of the first to use radio communication, and they assigned the frequency 12.375 megahertz to their police radio system.
