In APCO, Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials 10-codes, 10-52 means "Ambulance" or "Medical Assistance Requested". It is used to report a medical emergency, request an ambulance, or indicate that a unit is responding to a situation requiring EMS support.
Here’s how it might be used in a real-world scenario:
- Officer: "Dispatch, 10-52 at 14th Street and Pine, injured pedestrian, unknown severity."
- Dispatch: "10-4, unit 11, ambulance en route, advise on scene conditions."
In this exchange, the officer communicates the need for medical assistance. Using 10-52 ensures that EMS units are dispatched promptly, other units are aware of the medical situation, and coordination occurs for safe and efficient patient care.
Operational Purpose
10-52 is vital for rapid medical response and public safety. Quick reporting allows dispatch to send the appropriate resources, inform nearby units, and prepare for potential traffic control or scene management. It ensures that injured parties receive timely care while officers maintain safety at the location.
This code is commonly used for vehicle accidents, medical emergencies, injuries, cardiac events, or any situation where prompt medical attention is required.
Officer Safety And Coordination
Declaring 10-52 helps officers coordinate with EMS and dispatch, ensuring scene safety. Units may report location using 10-20, acknowledge instructions with 10-4, or indicate temporary unavailability with 10-6 while assisting medical personnel. Clear communication reduces risk for responders and the public.
Variations And Agency Practices
Some agencies use 10-52 strictly for ambulance requests, while others include all medical emergencies or first-aid incidents. Local procedures may define required information, follow-up reporting, and whether units should provide patient details, traffic control, or scene security.
Plain-Language Alternatives
Agencies emphasizing plain-language communication may replace 10-52 with phrases such as:
- "Medical assistance requested."
- "Ambulance needed."
- "Injured party requires EMS."
Related 10-Codes
Codes commonly associated with 10-52 include 10-4 (acknowledgment), 10-20 (location), 10-50 (accident/crash report), 10-51 (wrecker/tow service), and 10-23 (arrived on scene/standby). Together, these codes support coordinated, safe, and efficient emergency response operations.