In APCO, Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials 10-codes, 10-79 means "Notify Coroner" or "Fatality Report". It is used by officers, dispatchers, and investigative units to report a death at a scene, ensuring that the appropriate authorities, including medical examiners or coroners, are notified promptly for official investigation and documentation.
Here’s how it might be used in a real-world scenario:
- Officer: "Dispatch, 10-79 at 456 Cedar Lane, confirmed fatality, notify coroner."
- Dispatch: "10-4, coroner notified and en route, additional units will secure the scene."
In this exchange, the officer communicates the presence of a fatality, allowing dispatch to immediately notify the coroner and ensure proper procedural handling of the scene. Using 10-79 streamlines communication and ensures legal and safety protocols are followed.
Operational Purpose
10-79 is critical for proper death notification, scene preservation, and coordination between law enforcement, medical examiners, and investigative personnel. Timely reporting ensures that evidence is protected, legal procedures are observed, and accurate documentation is completed for investigation, insurance, or legal purposes.
This code is commonly used for situations including:
- Unattended deaths
- Traffic fatalities
- Homicides or suspicious deaths
- Accidental deaths at workplaces, homes, or public spaces
Officer Safety And Coordination
Declaring 10-79 ensures units and dispatch maintain awareness of the sensitive nature of the scene. Officers may coordinate location using 10-20, acknowledge instructions with 10-4, or request additional assistance with 10-74. Proper coordination maintains safety, preserves evidence, and facilitates a thorough and respectful investigation.
Variations And Agency Practices
Some agencies may require additional notifications such as fire investigators, hazardous material teams, or family liaison officers depending on the circumstances. Local protocols often define reporting timelines, documentation requirements, and scene security measures when a 10-79 is declared.
Plain-Language Alternatives
Agencies emphasizing plain-language communication may replace 10-79 with phrases such as:
- "Fatality confirmed, notify coroner."
- "Deceased individual reported, coroner required."
- "Scene involves a death, initiate coroner protocol."
Related 10-Codes
Codes commonly associated with 10-79 include 10-4 (acknowledgment), 10-20 (location), 10-23 (arrived on scene/standby), 10-74 (assist/backup requested), and 10-67 (clear/available). Together, these codes support coordinated, safe, and legally compliant response to fatalities.