Police Radio Communication Protocols

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Questions and Answers

Why is it important to control your breathing during radio transmissions?

To avoid background noise

To impress dispatchers

To ensure your voice does not fluctuate (correct)

To project your voice to other officers

What should you do if your radio stops working?

Use another means of communication (correct)

Call for backup

Wait for dispatch to contact you

Try to fix the radio

Why is it important to check in and out with dispatch?

For your safety and dispatch's situational awareness (correct)

To monitor your location

To chat with dispatchers

To report your meal breaks

What should you do when you receive a call from dispatch?

Respond with your assigned identification and current location Signup and view all the answers

Why should you record information provided by dispatch?

To avoid forgetting details Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of constructing a message for transmission?

To provide accurate and concise information Signup and view all the answers

Why should you monitor transmissions from other units?

To stay alert for potential backup needs Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when you see a situation that needs investigation?

Initiate a transmission to dispatch Signup and view all the answers

What type of information does the FCIC database provide on individuals?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of reviewing arrest information and fingerprints at FDLE?

To create a criminal history Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following agencies can add information to a computerized criminal history?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the national database maintained by the FBI?

NCIC Signup and view all the answers

What happens to printed CCH information after use?

It is shredded or burned Signup and view all the answers

What type of fire extinguisher is best suited for flammable liquids?

CO2 Signup and view all the answers

What type of information does the NCIC system have records of?

Abandoned, recovered, stolen, and wanted person files Signup and view all the answers

Where are the records in the NCIC system from?

All of the above and more Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if victims are trapped beyond your rescue ability?

Make every reasonable effort to immediately extinguish the fire Signup and view all the answers

What type of information may be included in a BOLO?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to move people, including the injured, away from the scene?

To get them away from the fire Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for agencies to enter information into FCIC accurately?

To create a reliable record Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a BOLO?

To alert law enforcement of a potential threat Signup and view all the answers

What is a false alarm of a fire?

An alarm system activation with no evidence of reasonable threat Signup and view all the answers

What should you do after removing victims from the scene?

Provide first aid as needed Signup and view all the answers

What type of alert is issued for missing and endangered adults?

Silver Alert Signup and view all the answers

When should a BOLO be canceled?

When the BOLO is deemed no longer necessary Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to consider the proximity of the fire to oncoming traffic?

To determine the size of the perimeter Signup and view all the answers

What is an important step to take when arriving at the scene of an incident?

Gather and verify information before preparing a written BOLO Signup and view all the answers

What might you need to use to create a perimeter around the work area?

Emergency equipment, such as cones or flares Signup and view all the answers

What might you be required to assist with, depending on the scope of the incident?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What can be a source of photographs for a BOLO?

Prior arrest photos, driver's license photos, and security videos Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you do not have enough information on a suspect?

Run a criminal justice database check Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to review information from current BOLOs?

To keep the information fresh while patrolling the assigned area Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of intentionally causing a false alarm of fire?

It becomes a criminal offense Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of documenting a lost property incident?

To help identify and recover the lost property Signup and view all the answers

What type of report is used to document lost property incidents?

General information report Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of lost property that people commonly report?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What information should be obtained when documenting a lost property incident?

A description of the property and its estimated value Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of noting unique distinguishing identifiers of lost property?

To help identify the property later Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if someone turns in a found backpack to the police department?

Go through the contents of the backpack to catalog its items Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of responding to lost, stolen, or recovered property incidents?

To recover stolen property and return it to its rightful owner Signup and view all the answers

What type of dispute is a property boundary dispute between neighbors?

Civil Signup and view all the answers

How can a landlord legally recover possession of a leased residence without the consent of the tenant?

By filing an eviction proceeding in the county court Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a writ of possession in a landlord-tenant dispute?

To authorize the sheriff to evict the tenant and put the landlord in possession of the residence Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of a landlord preventing a tenant from entering the residence without a writ of possession?

The landlord may be considered to have committed a wrongful eviction Signup and view all the answers

What governs most of the traditionally recognized rental arrangements for dwellings in Florida?

The Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act Signup and view all the answers

What may a law enforcement officer do to a tenant who refuses to leave the residence without a writ of possession?

Do nothing and let the tenant stay in the residence Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a survey in a property boundary dispute?

To determine the location of the property line Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended course of action for parties involved in a property boundary dispute?

Seek the appropriate remedies in civil court Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of dispatchers in a centralized area?

To dispatch law enforcement officers, fire, rescue, and emergency medical services (EMS) Signup and view all the answers

When using a radio, what should you avoid transmitting over the air?

Sensitive information or criminal history details Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of radio protocol in law enforcement?

To describe the customs and regulations for constructing and transmitting radio messages Signup and view all the answers

What type of information can be relayed through law enforcement radio transmissions?

Driver's license status and driver history, along with other information Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using specialized units with technology such as scrambled or encrypted channels?

To increase operational security Signup and view all the answers

Why should you ensure your portable radio is set at the proper volume level?

So it is not disruptive to the surrounding environment Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of using an earpiece with a portable radio?

To prevent eavesdropping Signup and view all the answers

What should you transmit over the radio related to law enforcement business?

Information related to law enforcement business, such as driver's license status and driver history Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary consideration when determining where to park your patrol vehicle at the scene of a call?

Availability of cover and concealment Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when exiting your patrol vehicle at the scene of a call?

Close the door gently and quietly Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when approaching a scene, especially if you are waiting for backup?

Take and maintain the best tactical position Signup and view all the answers

Why should you scan the area for potential threats when exiting your patrol vehicle?

To identify potential suspects Signup and view all the answers

What should you do with your cell phone when approaching a scene?

Turn it to silent mode Signup and view all the answers

Why should you avoid backlighting and silhouetting other officers when approaching a scene?

To avoid creating a target for suspects Signup and view all the answers

What should you do with loose change or keys on your person when approaching a scene?

Secure them to minimize noise Signup and view all the answers

What should you do with your equipment on your duty belt when approaching a scene?

Secure it to your duty belt Signup and view all the answers

When interviewing a victim or witness, what should you do to establish rapport?

Introduce yourself by name and use the person's name Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of asking a victim or witness to describe the suspect?

To establish probable cause for arrest Signup and view all the answers

What type of information may be included in a BOLO?

The suspect's location, identity, and description, as well as any additional information Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you observe suspicious activity while conducting a security check?

Get the property owner's contact information and ask them about the circumstances Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to ask a victim or witness if they know the suspect's location?

To help find the suspect and apprehend them Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of a death notification?

To deliver the news in a professional and respectful manner Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if a victim or witness is unable to identify the suspect?

Try to obtain other information that may help identify the suspect Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a BOLO?

To provide information about missing or wanted persons Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using criminal justice databases during a death notification?

To locate the next of kin and obtain their contact information Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to separate victims and witnesses during an interview?

To prevent them from influencing each other's accounts Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you cannot reach the next of kin in person during a death notification?

Use the DAVID Emergency Contact Information to reach the next of kin Signup and view all the answers

What should you do after interviewing a victim or witness?

Take detailed notes of their account Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of conducting a security check?

To identify potential security threats Signup and view all the answers

What should you do after completing a security check?

Communicate the necessary information to dispatch Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of reviewing the property during a security check?

To inspect the property for damage or loss Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you find indications of criminal activity during a security check?

Begin the appropriate investigative action Signup and view all the answers

What should you do before delivering a death notification?

Identify any language or cultural barriers Signup and view all the answers

Who may be helpful when notifying a family member or significant other of a loved one's death?

A victim advocate, an agency chaplain, or an interpreter Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if the next of kin lives in another state or town and you are not able to go to their home?

Contact the local law enforcement agency in that area Signup and view all the answers

Why is it acceptable to notify the next of kin by telephone?

There is no other option Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when you make contact with the next of kin?

Answer their questions concerning the deceased person's location and the circumstances surrounding the death Signup and view all the answers

What should you avoid saying when delivering a death notification?

I know how you feel Signup and view all the answers

What is an important aspect of delivering a death notification?

Being empathetic Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you are unable to provide answers about the circumstances surrounding the death?

Explain the situation to the next of kin Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of delivering a death notification?

To inform the next of kin of the death Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to follow your agency's policies regarding death notifications?

To ensure consistency and fairness Signup and view all the answers

What should you do with recovered property?

Give it to your agency's property clerk for storage or destruction Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you can identify the owner of recovered property?

Return the property to the owner according to agency policies Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of entering recovered property into FCIC/NCIC?

To keep track of stolen property Signup and view all the answers

What can an owner or operator of a theme park do with lost or abandoned property?

Dispose of or donate it to a charitable institution after 30 days Signup and view all the answers

What should you do in a property boundary dispute between neighbors?

Document the incident and provide information on the legal process Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a writ of possession in a landlord-tenant dispute?

To allow the landlord to recover possession of the leased residence without the tenant's consent Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of dispatchers in a centralized area?

To coordinate responses to calls for service Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you respond to a residence where the homeowner complains about their neighbor's tree branches?

Document the incident and provide information on the legal process Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of responding to lost, stolen, or recovered property incidents?

To document the incident and provide information on the legal process Signup and view all the answers

What type of dispute is a property boundary dispute between neighbors?

Civil dispute Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Communicating with Dispatch

Control breathing and use stress management techniques to maintain a professional tone when communicating with dispatch.
Monitor transmissions from other units in case backup is needed.
If radio doesn't work, use another means of communication and report the failure to dispatch.

Receiving and Answering Calls

Stay aware of all radio transmissions to assist other officers in need.
Respond to calls from dispatch with assigned identification and current location.
Record information provided by dispatch, including type of complaint, incident location, and suspect description.
Inform dispatch when arriving at the scene and if backup or additional resources are needed.

Interactions with Dispatch

Notify dispatch when going on or off duty, and communicate with them throughout the shift for safety and to receive calls for service.

FCIC and NCIC Databases

The Florida Crime Information Center (FCIC) is a statewide database that provides information on people, property, driver's licenses, and more.
FCIC is connected to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), which is a national database maintained by the FBI.
NCIC contains records of stolen and recovered property, wanted and missing persons, and more.

Constructing Messages

Provide accurate, brief, and concise information when transmitting messages.
Plan messages before sending and include essential information, such as officer identification, current location, and reason for the call.

BOLOs

A BOLO (Be On the Lookout) provides valuable information for identifying suspects, including name, location, reason for the alert, and descriptions.
BOLOs can be issued for missing and endangered children, adults, and disabled adults, as well as for violent criminals.

Responding to a Motor Vehicle Fire

Determine if the vehicle is occupied and if victims are present.
Move people away from the scene, provide first aid if needed, and extinguish the fire if possible.
Secure the scene and preserve evidence if the fire is related to a traffic accident.

False Alarms

A false alarm occurs when an alarm system is activated but there is no evidence of a reasonable threat.
Document that the suspect intentionally caused the alarm if charging someone with false alarm of fire.

Lost, Stolen, or Recovered Property

Respond to incidents involving lost, stolen, or recovered property, such as lost cell phones, stolen items, or turned-in valuable objects.
Use a general information report to document incidents and get descriptions of the property and its estimated value.
Precise descriptions, including unique distinguishing identifiers, are important for later identification and recovery.

Dispatchers and Radio Communications

Dispatchers work in a centralized area with access to telephones and other resources to assist in emergency situations.
Their duties include answering, receiving, transferring, and dispatching functions related to 911 calls.
They dispatch law enforcement officers, fire, rescue, and emergency medical services (EMS) to the scene of an emergency.
They also provide real-time information from federal, state, and local crime databases.

Professional Radio Conduct

When using the radio, conduct all communication in a professional manner.
Understand that there is no expectation of privacy when transmitting sensitive information or criminal history details.
Use specialized units' technology, such as scrambled or encrypted channels, to increase operational security.
Set the portable radio at the proper volume level to avoid disruptions.
Transmit only information related to law enforcement business, such as relaying law enforcement-related messages to other agencies.

Radio Protocol

Radio protocol describes the customs and regulations for constructing and transmitting radio messages.
It includes the proper use of codes and signals, which may vary among agencies and regions.

Arriving at the Scene of a Call

When arriving at the scene, stop a short distance from the address and coordinate with other responding units.
Consider factors such as a safe distance from the incident, availability of cover and concealment, and access to the scene by other first responders.
Assess the area immediately surrounding the patrol car and notify dispatch of any suspicious vehicles or people.
Be aware of potential threats, such as hidden suspects or accomplices, and take necessary safety precautions.

Officer Safety

When approaching the scene, take and maintain the best tactical position, especially if waiting for backup.
Identify how much time has passed since the incident occurred and prioritize the safety of victims and witnesses.
When interviewing, ask for identification and personal information, and establish rapport with the person.
Separate everyone and ask each person to describe what happened, then ask follow-up questions to clarify the incident.
Take detailed notes of the accounts for documentation purposes.

BOLO and Security Checks

A BOLO (Be on the Look Out) provides a description of the subject, their name, and any additional information to help apprehend or locate them.
BOLOs can contain a range of information and have no standard format or content.
When conducting a security check, observe suspicious activity, such as damaged plants or outdoor furniture, and run a vehicle check on any suspicious vehicles.
Check all entry points for signs of tampering and communicate the necessary information to dispatch.

Non-Criminal Calls for Service

Death notifications require a professional and sensitive approach, and the next of kin should be notified in person if possible.
When responding to property boundary disputes, advise the parties to seek remedies in civil court.
Landlord and tenant disputes are typically civil in nature and governed by the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
Officers should not take action in these situations without a writ of possession issued by the court.

Community-Oriented Policing

Community-oriented policing is a concept that encourages the community to work with law enforcement to address the root causes of crime and other issues affecting the community.
The goal of community policing is to identify and address issues specific to certain neighborhoods and work with the community to solve these problems.
Community-oriented policing has two main components: community partnerships and problem-solving.
Community partnerships increase understanding and trust between law enforcement agencies and their communities.
Community partners can include law enforcement representatives, government representatives, and community representatives.

Preparing to Patrol

Duty equipment inspection is vital to an officer's safety and effectiveness.
Officers must ensure that each piece of equipment is working and stored safely.

Using the FCIC/NCIC System

To perform an accurate FCIC/NCIC query, officers must provide as much information as possible, including:
- Person query: name, race, date of birth, and sex.
- Stolen property query: basic information about the item, including serial number, manufacturer, and description.
- Vehicle query: vehicle registration, vehicle identification number (VIN), or registration decal number.
- Vessel query: hull identification number (HIN), vessel registration number, or registration decal number.
The FCIC/NCIC reply will provide a list of possible matches, including owner information.
To confirm a hit, officers must provide additional information, such as height, weight, scars, tattoos, and Social Security number.

Resisting Arrest

Resisting an officer with violence occurs when a person knowingly resists or obstructs a law enforcement officer by committing or offering to commit a violent act.
This can occur even when the person is in handcuffs, and officers must be prepared to respond to violent resistance.

False Identification

Giving false identification occurs when a person who has been arrested or lawfully detained provides a false name or identifies themselves in any way to the officer.
Techniques to help identify people who provide false information include:
- Running a search of the person in DAVID.
- Asking for a Social Security number and comparing it with FCIC/NCIC.
- Asking for an address and comparing it to FCIC/NCIC or DAVID.
- Using a portable fingerprint scanner to establish identity.

Responding as Backup

Backup officers are called to assist other officers during calls for service, and may respond to non-life-threatening, high-risk, or life-threatening situations.
Factors to consider when responding to a call include the nature of the call, the type of assistance needed, familiarity with the area, and the demeanor of the requesting officer.
Upon arrival, backup officers should survey the scene, maintain situational awareness, and minimize flashlight use to keep others safe.
Backup officers should make visual or verbal contact with the primary officer to determine what type of assistance is needed.

Death Notification

When responding to a death notification, officers should:
- Be sensitive to cultural and religious issues.
- Identify any language or cultural barriers.
- Request a backup officer if necessary.
- Obtain the local law enforcement agency's telephone number by contacting dispatch, searching the internet, or performing queries within the FCIC/NCIC systems.
When notifying the next of kin, officers should:
- Be absolutely certain of the identity of the deceased.
- Make a clear statement that the death has occurred.
- Allow time for the venting of feelings.
- Avoid statements such as, "I know how you feel," or, "God never gives us more than we can handle."

Patrol Basics

Never assume a call is routine, and be prepared to react properly to each situation.
Maintaining an appropriate mindset and situational awareness is crucial for any officer.

Electronic Communications

Law enforcement relies heavily on mobile communication devices such as radios, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Mobile communication devices are used to access information, complete daily tasks, and communicate with dispatch.
Always be professional when using electronic communication, as all computer activity is recorded and subject to review under public records law.
When taking self-initiated action during patrol, provide dispatch with relevant information, such as identification, location, situation, and assistance needed.

Fundamentals of Patrol

Querying is the process of gathering information by entering or running a search in a database for law enforcement purposes.
Identify the certification requirements and restrictions for using the FCIC/NCIC system.
When using the FCIC/NCIC system, provide dispatch with as much information as possible to perform an accurate query.

Using the FCIC/NCIC System

For a person query, provide the person's name, race, date of birth, and sex.
For a stolen property query, provide basic information about the item.
The FCIC/NCIC reply will describe the vehicle or vessel and include the owner's name and address.
To confirm a hit, contact the agency that entered the information into the database to verify that the information is correct.

Death Notification

Be sensitive to cultural and religious issues when handling death notifications.
Identify any language or cultural barriers and request assistance if needed.
When responding in person, request a backup officer and practice officer safety.
Obtain the local law enforcement agency's telephone number to request assistance with the notification.
Be empathetic when delivering the notification, and avoid making statements that minimize the family's feelings.

Recovered Property

Inventory recovered property, complete a property/receipt form, and give the items to the agency's property clerk for storage or destruction.
Identify the owner or determine if the items are evidence of a crime.
If the property is stolen, refer to the information under stolen property.
Enter recovered property into FCIC/NCIC as recovered property.
Follow agency policies and procedures for handling lost, stolen, or recovered property.

Property Disputes

Know how to respond to disputes involving property boundaries, landlords and tenants, motor vehicle repairs, and repossessions.
Identify the procedure for handling property disputes and take appropriate action.

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This quiz covers essential protocols for police officers to follow when communicating over radio channels, including managing stress and prioritizing emergency traffic.

Police Radio Communication Protocols

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Questions and Answers

Why is it important to control your breathing during radio transmissions?

What should you do if your radio stops working?

Why is it important to check in and out with dispatch?

What should you do when you receive a call from dispatch?

Why should you record information provided by dispatch?

What is the goal of constructing a message for transmission?

Why should you monitor transmissions from other units?

What should you do when you see a situation that needs investigation?

What type of information does the FCIC database provide on individuals?

What is the purpose of reviewing arrest information and fingerprints at FDLE?

Which of the following agencies can add information to a computerized criminal history?

What is the national database maintained by the FBI?

What happens to printed CCH information after use?

What type of fire extinguisher is best suited for flammable liquids?

What type of information does the NCIC system have records of?

Where are the records in the NCIC system from?

What should you do if victims are trapped beyond your rescue ability?

What type of information may be included in a BOLO?

Why is it important to move people, including the injured, away from the scene?

Why is it important for agencies to enter information into FCIC accurately?

What is the primary purpose of a BOLO?

What is a false alarm of a fire?

What should you do after removing victims from the scene?

What type of alert is issued for missing and endangered adults?

When should a BOLO be canceled?

Why is it important to consider the proximity of the fire to oncoming traffic?

What is an important step to take when arriving at the scene of an incident?

What might you need to use to create a perimeter around the work area?

What might you be required to assist with, depending on the scope of the incident?

What can be a source of photographs for a BOLO?

What should you do if you do not have enough information on a suspect?

Why is it important to review information from current BOLOs?

What is the consequence of intentionally causing a false alarm of fire?

What is the purpose of documenting a lost property incident?

What type of report is used to document lost property incidents?

What is an example of lost property that people commonly report?

What information should be obtained when documenting a lost property incident?

What is the importance of noting unique distinguishing identifiers of lost property?

What should you do if someone turns in a found backpack to the police department?

What is the goal of responding to lost, stolen, or recovered property incidents?

What type of dispute is a property boundary dispute between neighbors?

How can a landlord legally recover possession of a leased residence without the consent of the tenant?

What is the purpose of a writ of possession in a landlord-tenant dispute?

What is the consequence of a landlord preventing a tenant from entering the residence without a writ of possession?

What governs most of the traditionally recognized rental arrangements for dwellings in Florida?

What may a law enforcement officer do to a tenant who refuses to leave the residence without a writ of possession?

What is the purpose of a survey in a property boundary dispute?

What is the recommended course of action for parties involved in a property boundary dispute?

What is the primary responsibility of dispatchers in a centralized area?

When using a radio, what should you avoid transmitting over the air?

What is the purpose of radio protocol in law enforcement?

What type of information can be relayed through law enforcement radio transmissions?

What is the purpose of using specialized units with technology such as scrambled or encrypted channels?

Why should you ensure your portable radio is set at the proper volume level?

What is the primary purpose of using an earpiece with a portable radio?

What should you transmit over the radio related to law enforcement business?

What is the primary consideration when determining where to park your patrol vehicle at the scene of a call?

What should you do when exiting your patrol vehicle at the scene of a call?

What should you do when approaching a scene, especially if you are waiting for backup?

Why should you scan the area for potential threats when exiting your patrol vehicle?

What should you do with your cell phone when approaching a scene?

Why should you avoid backlighting and silhouetting other officers when approaching a scene?

What should you do with loose change or keys on your person when approaching a scene?

What should you do with your equipment on your duty belt when approaching a scene?

When interviewing a victim or witness, what should you do to establish rapport?

What is the purpose of asking a victim or witness to describe the suspect?

What type of information may be included in a BOLO?

What should you do if you observe suspicious activity while conducting a security check?

Why is it important to ask a victim or witness if they know the suspect's location?

What is the primary goal of a death notification?

What should you do if a victim or witness is unable to identify the suspect?

What is the primary purpose of a BOLO?

What is the purpose of using criminal justice databases during a death notification?

Why is it important to separate victims and witnesses during an interview?

What should you do if you cannot reach the next of kin in person during a death notification?

What should you do after interviewing a victim or witness?