In APCO, Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials 10-codes, 10-54 means "Livestock on Highway" or "Loose Animal on Roadway". It is used to report animals that have strayed onto roadways, presenting potential hazards to traffic, drivers, and the animals themselves.
Here’s how it might be used in a real-world scenario:
- Officer: "Dispatch, 10-54 at County Road 12, cow loose on westbound lane."
- Dispatch: "10-4, unit 7, alert nearby traffic and request animal control."
In this exchange, the officer reports a hazard caused by a loose animal. Using 10-54 ensures that dispatch, nearby units, and relevant agencies (such as animal control) are notified so that traffic safety and the animal’s welfare are addressed promptly.
Operational Purpose
10-54 is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring safe roadway conditions. Reporting animals on the road allows officers to warn approaching drivers, coordinate traffic control, and request the appropriate response from animal control or local authorities.
Typical situations include livestock escaping from farms, domestic animals wandering onto busy streets, or wildlife posing hazards to drivers, especially in rural or suburban areas.
Officer Safety And Coordination
Declaring 10-54 allows officers and dispatch to maintain situational awareness. Units may update location with 10-20, acknowledge instructions with 10-4, or report temporary unavailability with 10-6 while handling the hazard. Clear communication helps prevent collisions and ensures a coordinated response.
Variations And Agency Practices
Some agencies use 10-54 strictly for farm livestock, while others include all loose animals, including pets and wildlife. Local protocols may define whether officers should physically assist the animal, direct traffic, or request specialized personnel.
Plain-Language Alternatives
Agencies emphasizing plain-language communication may replace 10-54 with phrases such as:
- "Animal on roadway."
- "Loose livestock reported."
- "Road hazard due to animal."
Related 10-Codes
Codes commonly associated with 10-54 include 10-4 (acknowledgment), 10-20 (location), 10-46 (assist motorist/vehicle), 10-49 (traffic/road hazard), and 10-23 (arrived on scene/standby). Together, these codes support safe, organized, and effective response to roadway animal hazards.