In APCO, Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials 10-codes, 10-48 means "Traffic Light" or "Traffic Control". It is used to report, request, or coordinate traffic management, such as controlling intersections, directing vehicles, or reporting traffic signal issues, ensuring safe and efficient roadway operations.
Here’s how it might be used in a real-world scenario:
- Officer: "Dispatch, 10-48 at 5th Avenue and Elm, directing traffic around stalled vehicle."
- Dispatch: "10-4, unit 21, additional units available if needed."
In this exchange, the officer communicates that they are actively managing traffic. Using 10-48 ensures dispatch is aware of traffic control measures, can monitor roadway safety, and can deploy additional units if required.
Operational Purpose
10-48 is vital for maintaining public safety, minimizing congestion, and preventing accidents during traffic stops, accidents, or special events. It allows officers to coordinate with dispatch and other units to manage traffic effectively, ensuring safe passage for vehicles and pedestrians alike.
This code is commonly used during emergency incidents, vehicle breakdowns, road construction, parades, or situations where temporary traffic control is necessary.
Officer Safety And Coordination
Declaring 10-48 allows officers and dispatch to maintain situational awareness. Units can acknowledge instructions with 10-4, report location with 10-20, or indicate temporary unavailability with 10-6 while actively managing traffic. Proper communication reduces risk to both officers and motorists.
Variations And Agency Practices
Some agencies use 10-48 for all types of traffic control, while others reserve it for traffic light issues, accident scenes, or special events. Local procedures may define the duration, coordination requirements, and reporting protocols associated with traffic management.
Plain-Language Alternatives
Agencies emphasizing plain-language communication may replace 10-48 with phrases such as:
- "Directing traffic."
- "Traffic control in progress."
- "Intersection management active."
Related 10-Codes
Codes commonly associated with 10-48 include 10-4 (acknowledgment), 10-20 (location), 10-47 (emergency/traffic stop), 10-46 (assist motorist/vehicle), and 10-23 (arrived on scene/standby). Together, these codes support safe, organized, and efficient traffic operations.