In APCO, Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials 10-codes, 10-10 means "Fight In Progress". It is used to indicate an active physical altercation that requires immediate attention, often with an elevated sense of urgency due to the potential for injury or escalation.
Here’s how it might be used in a real-world scenario:
- Caller: "There are two people fighting outside the bar."
- Dispatch: "Units respond to Main Street, 10-10 in progress."
In this exchange, dispatch is alerting responding units that a fight is actively occurring. The use of 10-10 signals urgency and prepares officers for a potentially volatile situation upon arrival.
Operational Context
10-10 is typically used during dynamic and fast-moving incidents where timing matters. Unlike reports of past disturbances, this code communicates that the situation is unfolding in real time. Officers receiving a 10-10 call are expected to respond promptly and remain alert for risks such as weapons, intoxication, or crowd involvement.
Dispatchers may combine 10-10 with additional details, including suspect descriptions, number of individuals involved, or whether medical assistance may be required.
Radio Discipline And Safety
During a 10-10 response, radio discipline becomes critical. Units may request 10-3 (stop transmitting) to reduce radio traffic, allowing only essential updates to be communicated. Once officers arrive on scene, status updates may follow using 10-4 (acknowledgment) or 10-6 (busy) depending on the situation.
Variations And Regional Usage
While 10-10 commonly refers to a fight in progress, exact definitions can vary by agency. Some jurisdictions may use it to describe any active disturbance involving physical confrontation, while others reserve it specifically for assaults in public spaces.
Because of these variations, many agencies supplement 10-10 with plain-language clarification, especially during multi-agency responses.
Plain-Language Alternatives
Agencies that prioritize plain language may replace 10-10 with phrases such as:
- "Fight in progress."
- "Active physical altercation."
- "Disturbance, subjects fighting."
Related 10-Codes
Codes often associated with 10-10 include 10-0 (use caution), 10-6 (busy), 10-7 (out of service), and 10-8 (in service). Together, these codes help coordinate response, officer safety, and communication clarity during high-risk incidents.