Radio Operations & Incident Dispatching Flashcards
7 cards from real PSD practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Radio Operations & Incident Dispatching flashcards as text
What is the correct way to handle a unit that is transmitting without releasing the push-to-talk button (a 'stuck mic')?
Answer: Attempt to reach the unit by phone and ask them to switch channels, then broadcast a warning to other units
A stuck mic blocks the channel; the dispatcher must reach the unit by alternate means and warn other units that the channel is blocked.
When logging a radio transmission for documentation purposes, which element is least critical in routine operations?
Answer: The dispatcher's personal opinion of the caller
Logs must capture time, unit ID, and message content; personal opinions have no place in official dispatch documentation.
A dispatcher needs to transmit a long, complex message to multiple units. What best practice should be followed?
Answer: Break the message into logical segments, pausing to allow units to acknowledge each segment
Breaking complex messages into segments with acknowledgment pauses prevents information overload and allows units to confirm receipt.
What is the recommended practice when a dispatcher must use the radio while simultaneously handling a 911 call?
Answer: Briefly place the 911 caller on hold only when absolutely necessary and return immediately
A brief hold is acceptable when radio communication is essential, but the dispatcher must return to the caller immediately to avoid losing critical information.
Which scenario best illustrates the correct use of an emergency tone or alert on a public safety radio system?
Answer: A unit activates the emergency button after being assaulted
Emergency tones are reserved for genuine life-safety emergencies such as an officer in distress or under attack.
Why is it important for dispatchers to avoid unnecessary radio transmissions during an active high-priority incident?
Answer: To keep the channel clear for critical incident-related traffic
Unnecessary transmissions during high-priority incidents can block life-safety communications, delay response, or cause critical information to be missed.
What action should a dispatcher take when a radio system alert indicates the primary repeater has failed?
Answer: Notify field units to switch to the designated backup channel or talk-around mode and alert technical staff
When the primary repeater fails, the dispatcher must immediately direct units to the backup system and notify technical personnel to restore service.