Monday, October 12, 2009

Cracking the Codes

Under the National Incident Management System (NIMS), people are supposed to avoid use of acronyms and 10 codes on the radio, such as 10-4. (Though that one is probably OK). They vary too much from department to department, which inhibits communication in joint operations.

They also can vary a wee bit in severity. For example, 10-89 can mean a bomb threat, but for the Salt Lake County Sheriff, it means stolen bicycle. Other examples:


10-31
    * Explosion/bomb incident
    * In pursuit
    * Clogged incinerator (FDNY)
    * Is a lie detector available?
10-34
    * Riot
    * Jailbreak
    * Sprinkler problem (FDNY)
    * Correct time?

10-38
    * Fire
    * Stopping suspicious vehicle
    * Steam leak
    * Vomit (Six Flags
         Amusement Park)

10-40
    * Fight
    * False alarm
    * Dead animal
    * Mental patient
    * Lunch

10-60
    * Major emergency (FDNY)
    * Assist motorist
    * Ball-playing in street
    * Coffee break

10-70
    * Bomb
    * Prowler
    * Fire Alarm
    * Need tow truck

10-80
    * Bomb has exploded
    * Chase in progress
    * Tower Lights Out
    * Dead animal
    * Lunch time
10-85
    * Sniper
    * Stabbing
    * Theft
    * Delayed
    * Loose Livestock

10-87
    * Dead body
    * Kidnapping
    * Pickup payroll check
    * Tea Break

10-95
    * Bomb scare
    * Reckless driving
    * Computer Check
    * On duty

10-71
    * Exploded Bomb
    * Shooting
    * Advise nature of fire
    * Lewd or Sexual Act

10-100
    * Misdemeanor Warrant
    * Dead body
    * Hot pursuit
    * Using restroom


I could see these leading to some major misunderstandings.