In APCO, Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials 10-codes, 10-30 means "Unnecessary / Illegal Use of Radio" or "Check For Alerts". It is used to report or prevent misuse of radio channels, unauthorized transmissions, or to check for important alerts that may affect ongoing operations.
Here’s how it might be used in a real-world scenario:
- Dispatch: "All units, 10-30 on channel two. Unauthorized traffic detected."
- Officer: "10-4, will monitor and report."
In this exchange, dispatch alerts units to inappropriate or unauthorized use of the radio frequency. Using 10-30 helps maintain clear communication channels, ensures compliance with radio protocols, and prevents critical messages from being blocked or delayed.
Operational Purpose
10-30 is critical for maintaining radio discipline and operational efficiency. Unauthorized or unnecessary transmissions can interfere with urgent calls, safety updates, and coordination between units. By identifying and addressing misuse, dispatch ensures that essential communications remain clear and timely.
Additionally, 10-30 may be used to prompt units to check for any pending alerts, messages, or operational advisories that require attention, keeping personnel informed and prepared.
Officer Safety And Coordination
Properly declaring 10-30 allows officers and dispatch to monitor radio traffic, prevent confusion, and maintain operational safety. Units may temporarily advise 10-6 (busy) while addressing or confirming the alert and acknowledge receipt with 10-4 (acknowledgment). Maintaining disciplined radio use is essential for effective coordination, especially during emergencies or multi-unit operations.
Variations And Agency Practices
Some agencies use 10-30 strictly to report illegal or unauthorized radio transmissions, while others extend it to include any unnecessary chatter that may disrupt operations. Local protocols may also define whether follow-up action, logging, or formal warnings are required after a 10-30 declaration.
Plain-Language Alternatives
Agencies emphasizing plain-language communication may replace 10-30 with phrases such as:
- "Unauthorized radio use."
- "Clear channel alert."
- "Check for pending messages or alerts."
Related 10-Codes
Codes commonly associated with 10-30 include 10-4 (acknowledgment), 10-6 (busy), 10-20 (location), 10-27 (check identification), and 10-29 (check for wanted/stolen). Together, these codes reinforce radio discipline, operational awareness, and coordination.