Radio Communication Protocols Flashcards

An SDPD officer is involved in a multi-unit response to a large disturbance. To avoid congesting the primary dispatch channel with unit-to-unit coordination, what is the standard procedure?

Answer: Move communications to an assigned tactical (Tac) channel.

Tactical (Tac) channels are specifically designated for on-scene, unit-to-unit communications during an incident. This procedure keeps the main dispatch channel clear for other priority calls and allows for more effective coordination among responding officers without being broadcast city-wide on the primary frequency.

An officer needs to broadcast a California license plate of '9CWX123' over the radio. Using the internationally recognized NATO phonetic alphabet, which of the following is the correct transmission?

Answer: "Niner Charlie Whiskey X-ray One Two Three"

The correct NATO phonetic alphabet words are 'Charlie' for C and 'Whiskey' for W. Additionally, it is standard practice to say 'Niner' for the number 9 to avoid confusion with the number 5 over a potentially distorted radio transmission. While some agencies historically used different phonetic alphabets (like the APCO/LAPD version), the NATO alphabet is the widely accepted standard for clarity.

Which of the following radio transmissions best demonstrates proper radio discipline, often summarized as the 'ABCs' of communication?

Answer: "Control, 1-Adam-12, show us Code 4 at the corner of 5th and Broadway. The RP is GOA."

This transmission is accurate (provides unit ID and clear status), brief (uses standard 'Code 4' and 'GOA' - Gone On Arrival), and clear (states location and disposition concisely). The other options are unprofessional, lack clarity, use ambiguous language, or demonstrate poor planning before transmitting, all of which violate proper radio discipline.

An officer is the first to arrive at a chaotic scene and determines the situation is under control and no further assistance is needed. What is the most appropriate and universally understood radio transmission to relay this status?

Answer: "Control, show me Code 4."

"Code 4" is a widely used and understood radio code in California law enforcement meaning "No further assistance needed" or "the situation is under control." While other phrases might convey a similar meaning, "Code 4" is the standardized, brief, and clear term for this specific status update.

An officer initiates a traffic stop and needs to run the driver's license. The primary dispatch channel is busy with a high-priority call. Which of the following is the most appropriate action for the officer to take?

Answer: Use the Mobile Data Computer (MDC) to run the information.

The Mobile Data Computer (MDC) is the primary tool for running routine checks like licenses and plates. Using the MDC avoids congesting the voice radio channel, which is especially important when it is occupied with a priority incident. This allows dispatch and other units to focus on the active call while the officer can still obtain the necessary information efficiently.

When broadcasting an 'Attempt to Locate' (ATL) for a wanted suspect, which of the following is the most critical information to provide immediately after the initial alert?

Answer: The reason the suspect is wanted (e.g., the specific charge).

Immediately after alerting units to an ATL, broadcasting the reason the person is wanted (e.g., 'wanted for 211 PC, armed with a handgun') is most critical for officer safety. This information allows responding officers to understand the potential threat level and adjust their tactics accordingly before they even receive a physical description.