In APCO, Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials 10-codes, 10-59 means "Escort" or "Convoy Required". It is used to request or indicate that a unit is providing or requires a police escort, motorcade, or convoy, often for dignitaries, oversized vehicles, emergency transport, or sensitive cargo.
Here’s how it might be used in a real-world scenario:
- Officer: "Dispatch, 10-59 requested for oversized load on Highway 21, northbound."
- Dispatch: "10-4, unit 7 assigned to escort, advise ETA and convoy details."
In this exchange, the officer requests or reports an escort operation. Using 10-59 ensures that dispatch, nearby units, and supporting personnel are aware of the operation, enabling proper coordination, traffic management, and safety precautions.
Operational Purpose
10-59 is essential for protecting people, property, and vehicles during transport. Properly coordinated escorts help prevent accidents, ensure smooth passage for oversized or sensitive loads, and provide security for VIP movements or emergency operations.
This code is commonly used for VIP motorcades, funeral processions, hazardous material transport, emergency vehicle convoys, or any situation requiring controlled vehicle movement.
Officer Safety And Coordination
Declaring 10-59 ensures officers and dispatch maintain situational awareness and coordination. Units may report location using 10-20, acknowledge instructions with 10-4, or indicate temporary unavailability with 10-6 while managing the escort. Clear communication helps prevent collisions, maintain order, and support timely operations.
Variations And Agency Practices
Some agencies use 10-59 strictly for official motorcades or emergency convoys, while others apply it to civilian or commercial oversized vehicle escorts requiring police support. Local protocols may define planning, number of units required, and communication procedures during the escort.
Plain-Language Alternatives
Agencies emphasizing plain-language communication may replace 10-59 with phrases such as:
- "Escort required."
- "Convoy in progress."
- "Police escort requested for transport."
Related 10-Codes
Codes commonly associated with 10-59 include 10-4 (acknowledgment), 10-20 (location), 10-53 (roadblock/traffic control/checkpoint), 10-58 (direct traffic/control hazard), and 10-23 (arrived on scene/standby). Together, these codes support coordinated, safe, and efficient escort and convoy operations.