Ten-code

"10-1" redirects here. For the FIFA World Cup match, see Hungary v El Salvador (1982 FIFA World Cup).
"10-20" redirects here. For the EEG electrode placement system, see 10–20 system (EEG).

Ten-codes, officially known as ten signals, are brevity codes used to represent common phrases in voice communication, particularly by US public safety officials and in citizens band (CB) radio transmissions. The police version of ten-codes is officially known as the APCO Project 14 Aural Brevity Code.[1]

The codes, developed during 1937–1940 and expanded in 1974 by the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials-International (APCO), allow brevity and standardization of message traffic. They have historically been widely used by law enforcement officers in North America, but in 2006, due to the lack of standardization, the U.S. federal government recommended they be discontinued in favor of everyday language.[2]

  1. ^ "APCO Brevity Code to be "Voluntary Standard" In Florida Communications Plan" (PDF). rackcdn.com. October 1975. Retrieved July 1, 2019.
  2. ^ Heard on Morning Edition (2009-10-13). "Plain Talk Eases Police Radio Codes Off The Air". NPR. Archived from the original on 2009-10-17. Retrieved 2010-01-23.