In APCO, Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials 10-codes, 10-19 means "Return To Station" or "Return To Quarters". It is used to indicate that a unit is heading back to its assigned base, office, or designated location, often after completing an assignment or when requested by dispatch.
Here’s how it might be used in a real-world scenario:
- Dispatch: "Unit 16, clear from the call and return."
- Officer: "10-19."
In this exchange, the officer is confirming that they are returning to their station or assigned location. The use of 10-19 provides dispatch with clear awareness of unit movement and availability.
Operational Purpose
10-19 is commonly used at the conclusion of a call, during shift changes, or when a unit is needed at headquarters for administrative duties, briefing, or equipment-related tasks. It signals a transition from field activity to a controlled or stationary environment.
Dispatch relies on 10-19 to maintain accurate unit status and resource tracking, particularly during periods of high call volume.
Availability And Accountability
When a unit declares 10-19, it helps dispatch determine whether that unit remains available for calls or is temporarily unavailable due to administrative obligations. Officers may advise 10-6 (busy) if they are completing reports or debriefings upon arrival.
Once ready to resume field duties, officers typically return to service using 10-8 (in service).
Variations And Agency Practices
The interpretation of 10-19 can vary by agency. Some departments use it strictly for returning to the main station, while others apply it more broadly to include substations, sector offices, or temporary command posts.
To avoid confusion, 10-19 is often accompanied by plain-language clarification indicating the specific destination.
Plain-Language Alternatives
Agencies that prefer plain-language communication may replace 10-19 with phrases such as:
- "Returning to station."
- "Heading back to headquarters."
- "Returning to base."
Related 10-Codes
Codes commonly associated with 10-19 include 10-6 (busy), 10-7 (out of service), 10-8 (in service), 10-14 (information), and 10-20 (location). Together, these codes help track unit movement, availability, and operational readiness.