COPS Radio Training

Communication Procedures The radio system is to be used for transmitting official business only. Communications involving the safety of life or property shall be afforded priority over all other transmissions. All users of the assigned frequency shall take care to not interfere with other users. False calls, fraudulent distress signals, unnecessary or unidentified communications, obscene, indecent, or profane language as well as the transmission of unauthorized call letters are specifically prohibited.

Communication Procedures Transmissions shall be brief and impersonal. Words or voice inflection that reflects irritation, disgust, sarcasm, or jokes are prohibited. The station shall not continuously radiate a signal without modulation (e.g. open radio mic)

General Guidelines COPS members may not willfully or purposely damage city radios due to neglectful or reckless behavior. COPS members must check out a radio with the on- duty sergeant or OIC before their shift and then return the radio at the end of their shift. At no time will radios be taken home by a COPS member. COPS members will utilize plain language when transmitting on the radio.

General Guidelines COPS members must use phonetic alphabet when calling out vehicle license plate numbers. COPS members must be proficient with the use of the phonetic alphabet before being allowed to use the radio. COPS members may use their handheld radio to notify dispatch regarding the following incidents: a. Any incident that involves the possibility of serious injury or death to any person. b. Major accident or any accident in roadway that is blocking traffic c. Any criminal incident in progress such as assaults, burglaries, thefts or robberies. d. Suspicious persons or vehicles still on scene. e. Hazardous road conditions. f. Juvenile curfew violations or park curfew violations. g. Reckless or intoxicated drivers. h. Intoxicated persons in public places. **Note**-- At any given time, some circumstances may escalate and would require a quicker response from officers. Members should use good judgment in knowing when to use the radio and when not to.

Radio Usage

Proper Radio Language Use plain language—but with a shorthand version When replying no—say negative When replying yes or ok—say 10-4 What is your 20—means where are you Give the phonetic alphabet when calling out LP #s

A Word from Dispatch Scenario Training