911 Operator Test 911 Operator Test Radio Communications and Dispatch Protocols

Question 1

What does the radio code '10-4' typically mean in dispatch communications?

Accepted Answer

Acknowledged/Message received

Answer

'10-4' is a standard radio code meaning the message has been received and understood.

Question 2

What is the NATO phonetic alphabet word for the letter 'A'?

Accepted Answer

Alpha

Answer

'Alpha' is the NATO phonetic alphabet word for A, used to prevent miscommunication over radio.

Question 3

What does '10-20' typically mean in police radio codes?

Accepted Answer

Location

Answer

10-20 is a standard radio code used to request or state a unit's current location.

Question 4

What is the PRIMARY purpose of using a phonetic alphabet during radio transmissions?

Accepted Answer

To ensure letters are clearly understood despite noise or static

Answer

Phonetic alphabets prevent misidentification of similar-sounding letters like B and D over noisy radio channels.

Question 5

What does '10-33' typically mean in many US dispatch systems?

Accepted Answer

Emergency — all units clear the channel

Answer

10-33 signals an emergency requiring all units to clear the radio channel for priority traffic.

911 Operator Test Practice Test