Understanding police codes is essential for anyone interested in how emergency services communicate. In Switzerland, police use specific code systems to convey critical information quickly and efficiently. These codes help maintain clarity during emergencies and ensure smooth coordination between various law enforcement units. Whether you’re a student, a journalist, or just a curious citizen, learning the police code list of Switzerland gives you a deeper insight into how law enforcement functions behind the scenes.
In this article, we’ll explore the complete police code list used in Switzerland, what each code means, the police code for a dead body, 11 emergency numbers you should know in Switzerland, and how PoliceCode is a free and accessible resource for everyone.
What Are Police Codes?
Police codes are short numeric or alphanumeric sequences used by law enforcement to communicate quickly and securely. Instead of using lengthy descriptions over the radio or internal systems, officers use these codes to summarize situations, requests, or status updates. This allows them to save time, minimize confusion, and maintain confidentiality.
Why Use Codes?
Speed and Efficiency: In emergencies, every second counts. Codes are faster to say and understand.
Confidentiality: Sensitive information can be shared without alarming the public.
Standardization: They ensure all departments use a common language for uniform communication.
Noise Management: Radio transmissions are often noisy. Codes are easier to recognize over poor-quality audio.
The Police Code System in Switzerland
Switzerland, with its multilingual population and federal structure, uses police codes that are standardized across cantons but may slightly vary depending on the region. However, there are universal codes used throughout the country for common emergency scenarios.
Below is a general police code list used in Switzerland. These are the most commonly used codes and their meanings:
Common Swiss Police Codes and What They Mean
| Police Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 10-0 | Caution – Officer in danger |
| 10-1 | Unable to copy – move to another channel |
| 10-2 | Signal good |
| 10-3 | Stop transmitting |
| 10-4 | Message received and understood |
| 10-5 | Relay this information |
| 10-6 | Busy – Stand by |
| 10-7 | Out of service |
| 10-8 | In service or available |
| 10-9 | Repeat message |
| 10-10 | Negative |
| 10-13 | Advise weather/road conditions |
| 10-20 | Location of unit (Where are you?) |
| 10-21 | Call by telephone |
| 10-22 | Disregard previous information |
| 10-23 | Arrived at the scene |
| 10-24 | Assignment completed |
| 10-25 | Report in person to… |
| 10-26 | Detaining subject |
| 10-27 | Driver’s license information |
| 10-28 | Vehicle registration information |
| 10-29 | Check for the wanted person |
| 10-30 | Doesn’t conform to regulations |
| 10-32 | A person with a gun |
| 10-33 | Emergency, all units stand by |
| 10-34 | Riot |
| 10-35 | Major crime alert |
| 10-36 | Correct time |
| 10-37 | Suspicious vehicle |
| 10-38 | Stopping a suspicious vehicle |
| 10-39 | Urgent use of lights and sirens |
| 10-42 | Ending tour of duty |
| 10-50 | Accident (F, PI, PD: Fatal, Personal Injury, Property Damage) |
| 10-51 | Wrecker needed |
| 10-52 | Ambulance needed |
| 10-54 | Livestock on the highway |
| 10-55 | Coroner needed |
| 10-56 | Suicide |
| 10-57 | Hit and run |
| 10-60 | Squad in the vicinity |
| 10-61 | Personnel in the area |
| 10-62 | Reply to message |
| 10-63 | Prepare to make a written copy |
| 10-65 | Missing person |
| 10-66 | Suspicious person |
| 10-67 | Clear to read confidential information |
| 10-68 | Dispatch information |
| 10-70 | Fire alarm |
| 10-71 | Advise the nature of the fire |
| 10-72 | Report progress on the fire |
| 10-73 | Smoke report |
| 10-74 | Negative contact |
| 10-75 | In contact with… |
| 10-76 | En route to… |
| 10-77 | ETA (estimated time of arrival) |
| 10-78 | Need assistance |
| 10-80 | Chase in progress |
| 10-85 | Delayed due to… |
| 10-88 | Advise phone number |
| 10-90 | Bank alarm |
| 10-91 | Pick up the prisoner/subject |
| 10-95 | Prisoner/subject in custody |
| 10-99 | Officer needs help urgently – All units respond |
These codes are used by patrol units, communication centers, emergency responders, and tactical teams throughout Switzerland.
Police Code for a Dead Body
One of the most frequently searched terms is the police code for a dead body. In Switzerland and many international systems, this is generally represented as:
10-55 – Coroner Needed
This code is used when a deceased individual is found, and a medical examiner or coroner is required on the scene.
Alternate Terms:
Code Black – Often refers to a death-related situation.
Code 500 – In some municipalities, this may also refer to a deceased person.
Using such codes avoids public distress and maintains professional decorum during communication.
How Police Codes Help in Emergencies
Here’s how police codes help law enforcement and emergency responders act more effectively:
Reduces Response Time: Quick communication equals faster action.
Avoids Public Panic: Using numeric codes conceals distressing information.
Clarity in Chaos: Especially useful during large-scale emergencies.
Legal Efficiency: Streamlines reports and coordination with other agencies.
11 Important Emergency Numbers in Switzerland
If you’re living in or traveling through Switzerland, knowing the key emergency numbers could save your life. Here are the 11 most important emergency numbers everyone should know:
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 117 |
| Fire Department | 118 |
| Ambulance | 144 |
| General Emergency | 112 |
| Poison Control Center | 145 |
| Air Rescue (Rega) | 1414 |
| Roadside Assistance | 140 |
| Psychological Help | 143 |
| Child Emergency Hotline | 147 |
| Non-Emergency Police | Varies per canton |
| European Emergency Line | 112 |
Save these numbers on your phone or write them down somewhere safe. In emergencies, fast access to help can make a critical difference.
PoliceCode – Your Free Gateway to Swiss Police Codes
If you’re looking for an easy and free way to explore police codes in Switzerland, PoliceCode is your best option. It offers a user-friendly interface, updated code listings, and accurate descriptions — all without needing any registration or sign-up process.
You can simply visit PoliceCode and start typing the code you’re curious about. Whether you’re a student, an enthusiast, or a professional in the field, it provides a seamless experience for understanding the language of law enforcement.
What makes PoliceCode valuable?
Free Access to detailed code explanations
No Sign-Up Required
Updated Regularly
Perfect for Training, Research, and General Awareness
Understanding Police Codes Is Empowering
Learning about Swiss police codes is more than a hobby — it can empower you with practical knowledge in times of emergencies, help you communicate better if you’re involved in community work, or simply make you a more informed citizen. These codes are not just for officers. Journalists, security staff, emergency workers, and even travelers can benefit from understanding what each code means.
Final Thoughts
Switzerland is one of the most well-organized countries when it comes to law enforcement and public safety. Police codes play a major role in keeping this system smooth and efficient. Whether it’s a 10-4 confirming receipt or a 10-55 indicating the need for a coroner, each code is a building block in a high-functioning public safety network.
And thanks to platforms like PoliceCode, anyone can explore and understand this network without paying a fee or creating an account. Simply visit the platform and type in any code you’re curious about. Knowledge is power — and in this case, it’s just a few clicks away.