What does the code "10-23" instruct officers to do?

The code "10-23" is commonly used in law enforcement communications to instruct officers to "standby." This means that officers should be ready to respond or take action but are not to proceed immediately to a location or situation. This code can be utilized in various scenarios where officers might need to wait for further instructions or for the situation to develop before taking any action.

The importance of standby instructions is to ensure that officers remain alert and prepared while avoiding any unnecessary movement that could compromise safety or the effectiveness of a response. In many situations, proper communication and the ability to wait for further commands can be critical for maintaining order and ensuring that resources are effectively managed.

Understanding codes like "10-23" and their meanings enhances situational awareness and compliance with departmental protocols, ultimately contributing to better operational efficiency.