Basic Police Radio Codes
Basic police radio codes, also known as ten-codes, are a standardized set of numerical signals used by law enforcement and other emergency services to communicate specific information concisely over the radio. These codes help streamline communication, especially in situations where clarity and brevity are essential. The meaning of these codes can sometimes vary between different jurisdictions.
| Code | Description |
|---|---|
| Code 1 | Non-urgent situation |
| Code 2 | Urgent - Proceed immediately |
| Code 3 | Emergency - Proceed immediately with lights and siren |
| Code 4 | No further assistance required |
| Code 5 | Stakeout - uniformed officers stay away |
| Code 6 | Out of vehicle for investigation |
| Code 7 | Out of service to eat |
| Code 8 | Fire alarm |
| Code 9 | Roadblock |
| Code 10 | Bomb threat / Patrol your district and report extent of damage |
| Code 13 | Major disaster activation |
| Code 14 | Resume normal operation |
| Code 20 | Notify news media to respond |
| Code 21 | Jail emergency |
| Code 22 | Restricted radio traffic |
| Code 30 | Officer needs emergency assistance |
| Code 33 | Clear radio channel - emergency traffic only |
| Code 37 | Subject/Property wanted |
| Code 43 | TAC forces committed |
| Code 100 | In position to intercept suspect |
| Code 666 | Country-wide emergency |
| Code Blue | Bus/Cab in trouble |
| Code Purple | Gang activity |
| Code Red | VARDA alarm activated |