"Professional security begins with professional conduct."
Communication and Radio Procedures
Instructor Sele: Security without communication is just a uniform. Your radio is your lifeline to your team, your supervisor, and emergency services. Use it correctly, every time.
Section 1 — Radio Discipline
A radio is a shared communication tool. Cluttering the channel with unnecessary talk puts everyone at risk. Think before you transmit. Identify yourself first ("Control, this is Gate 1, over."). Be brief and clear — no slang, no rambling. Wait for a pause before transmitting. Confirm receipt with "Roger" or "10-4".
Section 2 — Common 10-Codes at SafeHaven
10-1 Poor signal / say again. 10-4 Message received and understood. 10-6 Busy, stand by. 10-20 What is your location? 10-33 Emergency — all units respond. 10-99 Officer needs assistance.
Section 3 — The SMEAC Radio Message Format
For structured incident reports over radio, use SMEAC: Situation (what is happening?), Mission (what do you need?), Execution (what action are you taking?), Administration (is anyone injured? resources?), Command (who is in charge at the scene?).
Section 4 — Phone and In-Person Communication
Radio discipline applies equally to phone and face-to-face communication with clients, visitors, and colleagues. Always introduce yourself, be clear and professional, and never speculate or share unconfirmed information. "I will find out and call you back" is always acceptable.
- •Identify yourself before every radio transmission
- •Know your 10-codes — they save time in emergencies
- •Use SMEAC for structured emergency radio reports
- •Never share unconfirmed information — it causes panic
- •Radio is a lifeline: treat it with discipline and respect
"In a serious incident, a panicked, unclear radio message can cost lives. I drill my teams on radio procedure every month. When the emergency comes, you don't rise to the occasion — you fall to your training level."
What does the 10-code "10-33" mean?