Good radio communication can make the difference between a routine call and a critical incident. We asked the Police1 Facebook community: “What’s the unofficial rule of radio etiquette every officer knows?” Their responses ranged from humorous observations to practical reminders about keeping the airwaves clear. Together, they paint a picture of the habits officers rely on to communicate effectively and safely.
Keep it clear
Many officers emphasized that the best radio traffic is brief, accurate and easy to understand.
“Short, clear, and concise. If another officer has an emergency and they can’t get through, that’s not good.”
“It’s a microphone and not an ice cream cone. Talk into it, don’t eat it.”
“Talk slower on radio. It’s better to say it slower and clearer once than to repeat yourself 3 times.”
“ABC – accuracy, brevity, clarity.”
Know when to stay off the air
Several comments focused on recognizing when radio traffic should take priority over routine communications.
“When you hear something brewing, shut up.”
“When other squads are on a hot call, it’s not time to start running traffic.”
“Know what to say before you key up.”
Work with dispatch, not against them
Respondents noted that professionalism and teamwork with dispatchers are essential to keeping communications running smoothly.
“Don’t argue with the dispatcher.”
“Use your MDC/MDT as you were trained to do. Add your own notes to the call as safety allows.”
Be professional
A number of officers pointed out that radio traffic is often monitored by more people than officers realize.
“Be professional on the radio, and avoid using profanity - especially the F-bomb. People are listening.”
“Apparently saying ‘okie doke’ is frowned on.”
“Be really careful [to avoid] accidentally keying the mic.”
The humorous lessons everyone learns
Like many unwritten rules, some are passed down through experience — and a healthy sense of humor.
“Never say the ‘Q’ word unless it’s to the nurses or firefighters.”
“When a name is 38 letters long ... ’common spelling.’”
