In APCO, Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials 10-codes, 10-53 means "Road Block", "Traffic Control", or "Checkpoint". It is used to report or establish temporary traffic stops, roadblocks, or checkpoints for law enforcement operations, public safety, or traffic management.
Here’s how it might be used in a real-world scenario:
- Officer: "Dispatch, 10-53 at 6th Avenue and Birch, DUI checkpoint in progress."
- Dispatch: "10-4, units in the area notified, advise on traffic flow."
In this exchange, the officer communicates that a checkpoint or roadblock is active. Using 10-53 ensures dispatch and nearby units are aware, allowing for safe coordination, traffic management, and operational oversight.
Operational Purpose
10-53 is crucial for maintaining law enforcement presence, public safety, and efficient traffic flow during temporary stoppages or checkpoints. Reporting roadblocks ensures that units can provide assistance, redirect traffic, and coordinate resources while preventing accidents or congestion.
This code is commonly used for DUI checkpoints, security roadblocks, accident scene control, parades, or emergency traffic management situations.
Officer Safety And Coordination
Declaring 10-53 allows officers and dispatch to maintain situational awareness. Units may update location using 10-20, acknowledge instructions with 10-4, or report temporary unavailability with 10-6 while monitoring and managing the roadblock. Proper communication reduces risk for officers, motorists, and pedestrians.
Variations And Agency Practices
Some agencies use 10-53 strictly for law enforcement checkpoints, while others extend it to traffic detours, public safety events, or emergency situations. Local protocols may define setup procedures, documentation requirements, and whether notification to dispatch or nearby units is mandatory.
Plain-Language Alternatives
Agencies emphasizing plain-language communication may replace 10-53 with phrases such as:
- "Roadblock in place."
- "Checkpoint active."
- "Traffic control established."
Related 10-Codes
Codes commonly associated with 10-53 include 10-4 (acknowledgment), 10-20 (location), 10-48 (traffic light/control), 10-50 (accident/crash report), and 10-23 (arrived on scene/standby). Together, these codes support coordinated, safe, and efficient traffic and law enforcement operations.