When You Hear "10-18", Remember to Stand By

Although everyone claims to know the most important 10-codes by heart, we have been informed by "Dispatch" that some "10-18" transmissions are being disregarded. A quick review is in order.


Whenever you call in to "Dispatch" (for any reason), you automatically assume that when the dispatcher replies that he (or she) is acknowledging your call and waiting for your next transmission. ONLY if and when you hear "10-1" (or "go ahead"), should you begin transmitting again. Should the dispatcher respond with "10:18", DO NOT REPLY. DO NOT even acknowledge that you received the transmission. "10-18" means stand by, or literally "SHUT UP and stop all communications immediately until further notice".


There are only two exceptions to the above rule:

• After a delay of about five minutes from your initial call, you may call in again. Note that the dispatcher may again respond with "10-18". Please wait another 4-5 minutes and call in again.
• In the case of an emergency (where there is a threat to life or property) you should reply immediately, stating first, "THIS IS AN EMERGENCY". Wait for the dispatcher to respond before continuing your emergency transmission.

The important point to remember about a "10-18" response is that the dispatcher is busy communicating  with someone else, or is involved with an emergency situation which requires his or her undivided attention. The dispatcher is likely already in communication with PS, EMS,  police, Urgences Sante, Simo (water works), the fire dept., or with a resident on the phone. Just like you, his focus can be distracted when listening to multiple people or radio calls.
 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
On a different subject, should Dispatch call your vehicle (or radio call sign such as COP B) and merely say, "COP B - 10-07", there are ONLY 2 POSSIBLE RESPONSES. If you accidentally pressed the distress button, your response would be one singe word - DENY or NEGATIVE. Do not continue speaking or give any explanation or excuse.

If, on the other hand, you are indeed in danger, you would reply with one word - CONFIRM, after which time you may explain, when it is safe to do so. We cannot stress the importance of these two 10-codes, which are all listed in the 10-code chart affixed to the dash board, or found inside the log sheet binder. It is strongly suggested that you USE AND LEARN as many 10-codes as you can to simplify and shorten your transmissions. Please review the chart from time to time, and keep it handy to decipher what code was given to you -such as, "do you require 10-35?" (police dept.)