Why the Police is Called 12?
Have you ever wondered why we call the police when we need help, and it’s always "911"? Well, the reason lies in the history and technological advancements of the early 20th century. In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating story behind why the police is called 12.
The Early Days of Emergency Services
In the early 20th century, emergency services were still in their infancy. In 1899, the first emergency telephone service was established in San Francisco, California, USA. This service, called the "San Francisco Municipal Police Department," allowed people to call the police using a special phone number: 123.
The Birth of the Police Radio
In the 1920s, radio technology began to play a crucial role in communication. The first police radio was introduced in 1921 in Detroit, Michigan, USA. This radio allowed police officers to receive calls and respond to emergencies in real-time. This marked the beginning of a new era in law enforcement.
The Creation of the 12-Coded System
As police radio technology improved, so did the need for a more efficient and standardized communication system. In the 1940s and 1950s, the police department in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA, introduced a 12-coding system. This system allowed police officers to use 12 distinct numbers and phrases to communicate with each other and receive calls from the public.
Why 12?
So, why 12 and not 10, 15, or 20? The answer lies in the early days of telegraphy and morse code. In the 19th century, telegraph operators used 12 distinct clicks or Morse code sequences to identify different messages. This 12-coding system became the standard for emergency services, including the police.
The Evolution of Emergency Numbers
In the 1960s and 1970s, emergency services began to transition from radio to single, dedicated phone numbers. In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recommended a single, nationwide emergency number: 911. This number was introduced in 1968 and quickly became the standard for emergency services across the country.
International Adoption of Emergency Numbers
In other countries, the adoption of emergency numbers varied. Some countries, like the United Kingdom, used a similar 999 system, while others, like Canada, adopted a 911 system similar to the United States.
Why the Police is Called 12? – In Summary
So, to answer the question: why is the police called 12? The answer lies in the early days of telegraphy and morse code, where 12 distinct clicks or Morse code sequences became the standard for identifying messages. This 12-coding system was later adopted by police departments and became the foundation for modern emergency communication systems.
Timeline: The Evolution of Emergency Numbers
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1899 | First emergency telephone service established in San Francisco |
| 1921 | First police radio introduced in Detroit |
| 1940s-1950s | Philadelphia police department introduces 12-coding system |
| 1968 | 911 emergency number introduced in the United States |
| 1960s-1970s | Single, dedicated phone numbers become the standard for emergency services |
Conclusion
The story behind why the police is called 12 is a fascinating tale of technological advancements, historical events, and the evolution of emergency services. From the early days of telegraphy to the introduction of dedicated phone numbers, the 12-coding system has played a significant role in shaping modern law enforcement. The next time you call 911 or your local emergency number, remember the rich history and technological innovations that led to this system.
