In APCO, Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials 10-codes, 10-73 means "Smoke Report" or "Smoke Investigation". It is used by officers, dispatchers, and fire units to report observed smoke that may indicate a fire or hazardous situation, allowing responders to investigate and verify conditions before escalation.
Here’s how it might be used in a real-world scenario:
- Officer: "Dispatch, 10-73 at Elm Street, smoke visible near abandoned warehouse."
- Dispatch: "10-4, unit 7, investigate location and report status."
In this exchange, the officer reports smoke in a location where a fire has not yet been confirmed. Using 10-73 ensures that dispatch can coordinate a response, sending fire units or additional resources to verify the situation and prevent escalation.
Operational Purpose
10-73 is critical for early detection and response to potential fire hazards. By reporting smoke promptly, officers help dispatch allocate appropriate resources, reduce risk to life and property, and prevent minor incidents from becoming larger emergencies.
This code is commonly used for visible smoke from buildings, vehicles, brush, industrial areas, or unknown sources. It helps responders determine whether immediate action, evacuation, or suppression is necessary.
Officer Safety And Coordination
Declaring 10-73 ensures that units and dispatch maintain situational awareness and safety. Officers may report location using 10-20, acknowledge instructions with 10-4, or coordinate with additional units using 10-67. Proper coordination minimizes exposure to hazardous conditions and improves the efficiency of smoke or fire investigation.
Variations And Agency Practices
Some agencies use 10-73 only for unconfirmed smoke, while others may include minor fire reports that require initial investigation. Local protocols may define reporting procedures, prioritization, and required updates during the investigation.
Plain-Language Alternatives
Agencies emphasizing plain-language communication may replace 10-73 with phrases such as:
- "Smoke observed at location."
- "Investigation required for reported smoke."
- "Potential fire hazard, verify source."
Related 10-Codes
Codes commonly associated with 10-73 include 10-4 (acknowledgment), 10-20 (location), 10-70 (fire report), 10-71 (structure fire), and 10-72 (brush/vehicle fire). Together, these codes support coordinated, safe, and effective smoke or fire investigation operations.