What Do Police Say When Requesting Backup Over the Radio?
Police procedures across the 18,000 police agencies in the USA vary widely. Officers often request backup over the radio by using specific phrases or codes to ensure clarity and efficiency.
General Requests for Backup
Voices shouting phrases like "Help! Help now! Need backup!" are familiar in films and TV. But real-world usage can range from straightforward requests to more coded or succinct phrases depending on the situation and department.
For officers in the old department I served, a real emergency would be signaled with the code '10–1', or a verbal statement like "Send backup" or "I need an assist," along with a precise location. This approach ensures immediate attention and clear communication with dispatch.
Department-Specific Codes and Phrases
The communication can get even more specific depending on the agency and the situation. Some departments use 10 codes, which vary by location, while others rely on plain language. In both cases, the goal is to convey the nature of the request and the need for additional officers.
In California, for example, both the agencies I worked with and others I assisted over the years used phrases like "10–11" after a call to dispatch. This often leads to requests such as:
"Start me a cover car." "Start cover." "I'll take a second unit." ["Other relevant phrases go here"]These phrases, while cryptic at first glance, allow officers to convey the exact nature of their request efficiently, facilitating quick response times.
Ensuring Clear and Effective Communication
Regardless of the department's protocol, the key to effective communication is clarity. Phrases like '10–1' and '10–11' are universally recognized in many law enforcement agencies and serve to immediately convey the urgency of the situation.
By using standardized or department-specific codes, officers can quickly request backup without having to explain the situation in detail, which can save crucial seconds in an emergency.
Officers and dispatchers in law enforcement rely heavily on these phrases to ensure that backup is deployed efficiently and effectively. This quick and precise communication can make a significant difference in both officer safety and the outcomes of incidents.
Understanding these phrases and codes can be invaluable for anyone who might be involved in or witness a police emergency, as it can help them communicate effectively and potentially save lives.