Police Field Communications - Chapter 3 Study Notes

Police Field Communications ### Chapter 3 Overview - Main Topics:1. Functions of the Communications Section and its dispatchers 2. Radio discipline and communication procedures 3. Radio code signals used by the Department 4. Non-emergency 311 complaint procedures including quality-of-life matters - Reference: P.G. 214-35 Processing Quality of Life Service Requests Using the 311 System ### Part I: Introduction - Importance of the Communications Network:- The network facilitates learning about and responding to emergencies and non-emergency situations. - The police radio is a vital communication tool for patrol officers. - The 311 system is integrated with police radio operations as a means of managing non-emergency service requests. ### Part II: NYPD’s Communication Network - Understanding the Police Radio:- Initial familiarization with the radio is required for effective communication. - Developing an "ear" for the radio improves with experience, requiring both training and field experience. #### Communications Section (Central) - Role and Function:- Receives calls from 911 operators which are routed to radio dispatchers. - Dispatchers are responsible for: - Assigning units - Transmitting task details - Handling interim notifications - Entering final job completions in their systems #### Radio Frequencies - Frequencies in Use:- Various frequencies handle communication specific to patrol, special operations (harbor, aviation, highways), and backup operations during emergencies. - Citywide frequencies are known as Citywide 1, 2, 3, and +4 Encr (encrypted). #### Incident Reporting via 911 - Process Overview:- 911 calls connect to police operators who gather necessary incident information for dispatch. - Information transmitted includes: - Location - Type of assignment - Details on suspects or conditions affecting the assignment #### Intergraph Computer Aided Dispatch (I/CAD) - Functionality:- Tracks detailed event and unit information during the call. - Routes calls based on geographic locations electronically to respective dispatchers. - Maintains records of calls and details for operational oversight. ### Part III: Communication Section Terminology - Key Terms:- ANI-ALI: Automatic Number Indicator (caller ID) and Automatic Location Indicator (location info). - Backlog Alerts:- Holding one (1) to four (4) jobs for ten (10) to fifteen (15) minutes: Indicates a potential backlog. - Holding five (5) jobs with no units available: Marks backlog status. - Hazardous/Sensitive Locations:- Definition and implications for responder safety concerning hazardous materials or critical locations requiring special protocols. ### Part IV: Radio Discipline and General Radio Procedures - Proper Conduct:- Maintain professionalism and respect in all communications. - Ensure the portable radio is always on your person and not left unattended. - Begin all communications with command and call sign for clarity. #### Communication Procedure Guidelines - Transmission Basics:- Use the 10-codes (check Part IV for specific codes) to keep messages concise. - Avoid speaking over the air unnecessarily, especially during emergencies. - Provide exact location to dispatch promptly. #### Emergency Protocols - Key Points During Emergencies:- Acknowledge dispatcher messages and keep them informed of location changes or assistance needed. - Communicate the nature of assistance required (e.g., additional units, supervisor). #### Sound Control and Transmission Clarity - Best Practices:- During transmissions, hold the radio two inches from your mouth and speak clearly. - Always communicate urgency while striving to stay calm. ### Part V: The Phonetic Alphabet and Radio Codes - Phonetic Alphabet:- Used to prevent confusion over similar-sounding letters and numbers. - Example Code: A = ADAM, B = BOY, C = CHARLES, etc. ### NYPD Radio Ten Signals - Utility of 10-Codes:- Facilitates quick transmissions and aids in data analysis for assignment categorization. - Dispatchers utilize codes for efficient communication when handling incidents. #### Radio Code Signals Breakdown - Information Requests, Possible Crimes, Crimes in Progress, Non-Crime Incidents, etc. detailed with various 10-codes and their applications. - Key 10-Codes to Know: - 10-0: Officer Needs Help/Emergency - 10-1: Receiving Poorly - 10-2: Receiving Well - 10-3: Stop Transmitting - 10-4: Acknowledge/OK - 10-6: Busy, Unless Urgent - 10-8: In Service/Available - 10-13: Assist Officer (Non-Emergency) - 10-20: Location - 10-23: Arrived at Scene - 10-29: Check for Wanted/Stolen - 10-31: Crime in Progress Report - 10-32: Person with Gun - 10-33: Emergency (Clear the Air) - 10-50: Vehicle Accident - 10-76: En Route - 10-84: ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) - 10-99: Unit Clear/Assignment Completed ### Part VI: Reporting Non-Emergencies – The 311 System - Purpose of the 311 System:- Aims to alleviate the burden on the emergency 911 system by allowing for non-emergency service requests through various methods (phone, app, web). #### Process for 311 Calls - Handling Non-Emergency Requests:- Officers must indicate the status of requests and respond promptly. #### Effective Communication & Empathy Awareness - Instructor-led Discussions:- Topics for discussion to reflect on community interactions and responses to various calls, particularly chronic callers. ### Conclusion -