So today I was driving my kid to soccer practice when I overheard a police scanner blaring “10-56” on my neighbor’s porch radio. Total confusion hit me – last time I heard that code was during my community patrol volunteer days back in 2019. Figured it’s time to refresh my memory and share real-world tips.
First thing I did was dig out my old emergency response handbook from the garage storage box. Dust flew everywhere when I flipped open that binder. Section six had the goods: “10-56 = intoxicated pedestrian.” Could be drunk, could be high, could be both stumbling around near traffic. Either way it’s dangerous as hell.
Remembered this one midnight shift during my neighborhood watch years. Found this guy weaving between parked cars on Main Street reeking of cheap whiskey. Here’s how I handled it:
Key things I did right that night:
- Parked my truck with headlights pointed at him so approaching cars would spot the situation
- Used my emergency flashlight’s strobe function before getting close – bright lights help sober people up real quick
- Shouted clear commands like “Sir please sit on the curb” instead of fuzzy questions like “You okay there?”
Biggest mistake though? Forgot to scan for weapons before approaching. Found an empty knife sheath on his belt later – could’ve ended badly. Always look for bulges in pockets or waistbands before closing distance.
When the cops rolled up 8 minutes later (felt like hours), they were pissed I didn’t mention his possible mental health issues over the radio. Apparently screaming Bible verses at traffic changes their response strategy. Now when I call anything in, I always add descriptors like “subject talking to invisible people” or “hearing voices”.
Finished my research binge by calling my cousin’s wife who dispatches for county PD. Her golden rule? If you’re civilian and see a 10-56 situation: Call it in, keep visual, but stay the hell away unless they’re about to walk into traffic. Better to be a good witness than a dead hero.