Patrol Guide Pro

Built from Patrol Guide procedures and official public NYC/NYPD contacts.

Select an event from the left to focus, or browse all cards below. Use these as a fast field reference.

ID

Missing Person

Immediate search, broadcast, and detective notifications

P.G. 207-23 - Missing Persons

Overview

Use this event when a person is reported missing from a New York residence or qualifying temporary residence. Start with immediate verification, search, broadcast, and risk assessment.

Decision Guide

Where is the missing person’s residence for PG 207-23 purposes?

Full Checklist

Intake / Scope Rules

  • •There is no minimum waiting period before accepting a missing-person report.
  • •Resident precinct / PSA ultimately directs the overall effort to locate the missing person.
  • •Qualifying temporary NYC residences are accepted, but the complainant should also report to the police agency covering the permanent residence.
  • •A report for a residence outside New York City is not accepted under this PG; the complainant is directed to the police agency covering the residence.
  • •Do not use exclusion categories to refuse a report if the totality of circumstances indicates the person may in fact be missing.

Immediate MOS Actions

  • •Respond to the scene and obtain as much background information as possible: description, clothing, photo, school, friends, disputes, frequented locations, last seen, transit use, phone, email, social media, relatives/guardians, preferred language, and Operation Safe Child status.
  • •If the person has Alzheimer’s or related dementia and Safe Return enrollment is involved, collect bracelet / necklace information and Safe Return ID if available.
  • •Conduct an immediate search of the building / structure and immediate area to verify the person is missing.
  • •Broadcast the missing person over the radio and, if transit is involved, expand the broadcast along the travel route and confer with Transit Bureau / Traffic Management Center.
  • •Conduct name and address checks on the Department device, request the patrol supervisor, and notify the desk officer.

Supervisor / Command Notifications

  • •Patrol supervisor ensures the search was conducted, may activate Level 1 mobilization, deploy additional personnel, request specialized units, send a DAS message with photo / pedigree / last seen / transportation / Safe Return details, and coordinate the search pattern.
  • •If exigent circumstances exist, the patrol supervisor may activate Level 1 mobilization without prior approval and consult command as soon as possible.
  • •Command / desk officer notifications include detective squad, desk officer of the resident precinct / PSA if different, Operations Unit, Missing Persons Squad or RTCC, and Juvenile Strategies Unit if the missing is a juvenile.
  • •Desk officer at the residence command notifies command and directs a search of the residence if different from the place of occurrence.
  • •If the missing child may be missing due to abuse, neglect, or maltreatment, comply with PG 215-03.

Reporting / Detective Follow-Up

  • •Prepare the Person Report Worksheet, Complaint Report Worksheet, and Juvenile Report System Worksheet when applicable, using the same complaint number for the complaint and missing / unidentified person report.
  • •A Complaint Report and Missing / Unidentified Person Report are required even if the missing person is located before electronic entry; in that case the assigned detective closes the case in ECMS and documents how / where the person was found.
  • •Assigned detective attempts contact using phone, email, and social media; coordinates with helpful associates; requests DCJS fingerprint comparison for Operation Safe Child; distributes photos through Operations / ECMS / Patrol Services Bureau Wheel / Transit Bureau Wheel; and may request RTCC alert and public dissemination through DCPI.
  • •Desk officer reviews and signs the missing / unidentified person report, records Missing Persons Squad case information, and notifies Missing Persons Squad and the residence command when reports are complete.
  • •If the missing person is found to be the victim of a crime, notify desk officer, residence and occurrence commands, and Missing Persons Squad; close the missing-person case by revision and open a new Complaint Report for the crime.
  • •If the person remains missing across tours, ensure desk-officer handoff, roll-call dissemination, patrol borough notification, and continuing search direction.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

NYPD Missing Persons Squad

Report status or information on missing persons

MedicAlert Safe Return

Safe Return ID / Alzheimer’s-related information in PG 207-23

ID

Silver Alert

Missing vulnerable senior in imminent danger

P.G. 207-31 - Silver Alert System

Overview

Use when the missing person is a vulnerable senior, or similar dementia-related case, and the facts indicate imminent danger of serious bodily harm or death.

Decision Guide

Does the case meet or potentially meet Silver Alert eligibility under PG 207-31?

Full Checklist

Eligibility / Scope Rules

  • •Start with PG 207-23 Missing Persons; Silver Alert is an added public-alert procedure, not a replacement for the missing-person investigation.
  • •Core eligibility is a vulnerable senior: age sixty-five or older with dementia from Alzheimer's disease or a similar condition, reported missing under circumstances indicating imminent danger of serious bodily harm or death.
  • •A Detective Zone Commanding Officer / Detective Bureau Duty Captain may also activate for a person under sixty-five with dementia and imminent danger if they reasonably believe Silver Alert will help locate the person.
  • •There is no minimum waiting period before activation can be requested.
  • •Vulnerable-senior status alone is not enough; there must also be danger factors such as severe weather, urgent medical need, or violent / reckless behavior.

Scene / Activation Steps

  • •Uniformed member complies with Missing Persons procedure, requests the patrol supervisor, and notifies the desk officer.
  • •Desk officer complies with Missing Persons duties and requests the Precinct Detective Squad supervisor and commanding officer / duty captain to the scene.
  • •Detective squad conducts the preliminary investigation and, if criteria are met, notifies the Detective Zone Commanding Officer / Detective Bureau Duty Captain and requests response.
  • •Only a captain or above from the Detective Bureau may activate a Silver Alert.
  • •In most cases the prudent approach is to activate after patrol / field resources have been exhausted and the preliminary search is negative, absent exceptional circumstances.

Operations / Public Alert Flow

  • •If activating, provide Operations Unit with name, age, detailed description/clothing, last seen, vehicle, required medication, probable destination, probable transportation / route, and what the public should do.
  • •Detective Bureau captain directs a detective squad member to notify Missing Persons Squad and submit a Request for Media Attention plus recent photo to Deputy Commissioner, Public Information.
  • •Operations notifies Communications Section for citywide radio dissemination, Transit Bureau Wheel and/or Traffic Management Center as appropriate, DCPI, and Traffic Management Center for Variable Message Signs when vehicle data exists.
  • •Operations forwards alert data to NYCEM Watch Command, reviews and approves the drafted Public Alert, and sends approved alert information to DCPI.
  • •Once approved, NYCEM transmits the Public Alert to operations centers, 311, NYC.gov, SMS, email, and recorded phone messaging.

Located / Cancellation

  • •When the subject is located, verify identity, render reasonable aid, request ambulance or doctor if needed, and request the patrol supervisor.
  • •Patrol supervisor verifies the subject, notifies the desk officer, and requests notification of Precinct Detective Squad and Missing Persons Squad.
  • •Patrol supervisor notifies Operations Unit and requests cancellation of the Silver Alert.
  • •Operations notifies NYCEM Watch Command, Deputy Commissioner, Public Information, and Traffic Management Center if appropriate.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

NYPD Missing Persons Squad

Report status or information on missing persons

MedicAlert Safe Return

Safe Return ID / Alzheimer’s-related information in PG 207-23

CH

Amber Alert

Child abduction with life-threatening circumstances

P.G. 212-99 - Amber Alert System

Overview

Use when a child abduction case may qualify for statewide emergency dissemination. Missing-person steps still happen first.

Decision Guide

Does the child-abduction case meet or potentially meet Amber Alert criteria under PG 212-99?

Full Checklist

Eligibility / Scope Rules

  • •Amber Alert is a statewide child-abduction response program for life-threatening circumstances.
  • •Core criteria are: child age 17 or younger, and police belief that the child is in imminent danger of serious bodily harm or death, either at another's hands or because of a proven mental or physical disability.
  • •Most runaways and most non-custodial-parent abductions do not qualify, though case-specific facts may still justify consideration.
  • •Activation should be requested as quickly as possible after the abduction, but only after a preliminary investigation has been conducted.

Scene / Activation Steps

  • •Uniformed member complies with missing-person procedures, requests the patrol supervisor, and notifies the desk officer.
  • •Desk officer requests the Precinct Detective Squad supervisor to the scene.
  • •Patrol supervisor implements Missing Person / Special Category procedure and/or mobilization as needed.
  • •Detective squad conducts the preliminary investigation and, if the criteria are met, notifies the Detective Bureau Duty Captain and requests response.
  • •Only a Captain or above from the Detective Bureau may request activation through New York State Police Communications Section.

Operations / Interagency Alert Flow

  • •Detective Bureau Duty Captain notifies New York State Police Communications Section of the possible Amber Alert and notifies Operations Unit of details.
  • •If transit travel is possible, request Operations notify Transit Bureau Wheel.
  • •NYPD Communications Section disseminates the abducted child's description over each Department radio division.
  • •If a vehicle is involved, Communications reads the LPR/manual-entry vehicle message over each Department radio division.
  • •Notify Major Case Unit.
  • •Detective squad member notifies Missing Persons NCIC Unit for NCIC File 6, notifies Inter-City Correspondence Unit for NYSPIN File 11A, faxes the Amber Alert Submission Form to New York State Police, and makes follow-up phone confirmation.

Submission / Cancellation Rules

  • •When sending photographs by email to New York State Police, attach only one photograph per email.
  • •If vehicle description and plate are available, fax the Amber Alert Submission Form to Traffic Management Center; after NYSP confirms activation, Traffic Management Center initiates Variable Message Signs.
  • •If the child is recovered or the case no longer qualifies, immediately notify New York State Police in writing by fax so cancellation may be broadcast.
  • •Cancellations requested within eight hours of the original activation request can be broadcast as Amber cancellations; later cancellations must be handled through normal media notification via Deputy Commissioner, Public Information.
  • •All outside requests for Amber broadcast are referred to New York State Police Communications Section; outside agencies requesting investigative help are directed to Major Case Unit or, if unavailable, the Detective Bureau Wheel.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

NYPD Missing Persons Squad

Report status or information on missing persons

SH

Blue Alert

Officer seriously injured, killed, missing, or under credible threat

P.G. 207-39 - Blue Alert System

Overview

Use after the underlying line-of-duty injury, threat, or missing-officer procedures are already underway and the case may qualify for Blue Alert activation.

Decision Guide

Does the incident meet or potentially meet Blue Alert criteria under PG 207-39?

Full Checklist

Eligibility / Scope Rules

  • •Blue Alert is for identifying, locating, and apprehending subjects connected to the serious wounding or killing of a police officer, or for locating an officer missing in connection with official duties.
  • •Qualifying categories are: line-of-duty death or serious injury of a police officer, an officer missing in connection with official duties, or an imminent and credible threat that an individual intends to cause serious injury or death to an officer.
  • •Start with the underlying Patrol Guide procedures for the injury, death, threat, or missing-officer incident; Blue Alert is an added alert overlay, not a replacement.
  • •There is no minimum waiting period before a Blue Alert may be requested.
  • •In most cases, absent exceptional circumstances, the prudent approach is to activate after patrol / field resources have been exhausted and the preliminary investigation or search remains negative.

Scene / Activation Steps

  • •Patrol supervisor, detective squad investigator / supervisor, and Detective Bureau command ensure all underlying Department procedures are complied with and conduct the investigation according to the circumstances.
  • •If the facts meet Blue Alert criteria, notify the Detective Zone Commanding Officer / Detective Bureau Duty Captain and request response to the scene.
  • •Confer with the Precinct Detective Squad investigator / supervisor, commanding officer / duty captain, and other involved personnel regarding the circumstances.
  • •If activation is appropriate, notify Operations Unit and request a Blue Alert.
  • •Provide Operations with name, age, detailed description including clothing, last seen, vehicle if applicable, probable destination, probable transportation / route, and what action the public should take.

Operations / Public Alert Flow

  • •Detective command directs the Precinct Detective Squad investigator / supervisor to submit a Request for Media Attention to Deputy Commissioner, Public Information with a recent photograph if available.
  • •Operations notifies DCJS and requests issuance of the Blue Alert.
  • •Operations notifies Communications Section for radio dissemination and issues a DAS Critical Message to Department cell phones.
  • •If applicable, Operations notifies Transit Bureau and/or Traffic Management Center and requests Variable Message Sign dissemination when vehicle description and plate are available.
  • •Operations notifies Deputy Commissioner, Public Information, forwards Blue Alert Data to OEM Watch Command, reviews and approves the drafted Public Alert, and forwards appropriate approved information to DCPI.

Located / Cancellation

  • •When the subject is discovered, request the patrol supervisor in the precinct of discovery to respond and verify the individual is in fact the Blue Alert subject.
  • •Notify the Precinct Detective Squad if the discovered individual is the subject of the alert.
  • •Detective Bureau command verifies the basis for cancellation, such as subject in custody, no longer posing a threat, or a missing officer being located.
  • •Operations is notified to cancel the Blue Alert and then notifies OEM Watch Command, Deputy Commissioner, Public Information, Traffic Management Center and/or Transit Bureau Wheel if appropriate, and Communications Section.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

Cop Shot

Official NYPD public line for officer shooting information

DV

Domestic Violence / Family Offense

Safety-first family offense response with mandatory reporting

P.G. 208-36 - Family Offenses/Domestic Violence

Overview

Use for family / household incidents where immediate safety, probable-cause analysis, order-of-protection enforcement, and mandatory reporting all matter.

Decision Guide

What is the key domestic-violence enforcement condition right now?

Full Checklist

Eligibility / Scope Rules

  • •Use this procedure for offenses and covered incidents between persons within the Family/Household definition, including the NYPD expanded categories for persons currently or formerly living together in a family-type relationship.
  • •A common-sense totality-of-circumstances test is used to determine whether an intimate relationship exists.
  • •Concurrent jurisdiction with Family Court and Criminal Court exists only when the Family Court Act relationship definition is met, a family offense was committed, and the offender is of qualifying age.
  • •The NYPD expanded definition affects domestic-incident handling and reporting, but it does not itself create Family Court concurrent jurisdiction.

Scene / Enforcement Steps

  • •Obtain medical assistance if requested or if the need is apparent.
  • •Ascertain all facts, interview involved persons separately, record witnesses, collect evidence, and photograph visible injuries or damage.
  • •Determine probable cause, whether an order of protection exists, whether the offense is a family offense, and whether children may be abused or neglected.
  • •If the offender left before arrival, search the immediate vicinity when probable cause exists and the search may produce results.
  • •If an Order of Protection exists, verify it through eJusticeNY / zFINEST and enforce violations, including contempt charges where appropriate.

Arrest / Cross-Complaint Rules

  • •Victim reluctance does not automatically bar arrest, and members must not ask the victim whether they want the offender arrested.
  • •When both parties accuse each other of a misdemeanor family offense, identify the primary physical aggressor after conferral with the patrol supervisor.
  • •Document the primary-aggressor analysis and any refusal-of-arrest request in the digital Activity Log.
  • •If a child is the victim of a crime, arrest the perpetrator and do not issue a Desk Appearance Ticket.

Reporting / Referrals

  • •If child abuse or maltreatment is reasonably suspected, request the patrol supervisor and notify the State Central Registry.
  • •Prepare the New York State Domestic Incident Report in all covered domestic incidents and provide the complainant/victim with required copies.
  • •Prepare a Complaint Report for each complainant/victim when a domestic-violence offense within New York City is alleged.
  • •Advise the complainant/victim of court options, concurrent-jurisdiction distinctions where applicable, and available shelter and support services.
  • •Ask about access to firearms and record that information in the domestic-incident reporting.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

NYC Hope Hotline

24/7 domestic violence support

NYC Non-Emergency

City services and non-emergency help

SH

Sex Crime

Victim-centered response, evidence protection, and SVU notification

P.G. 207-33 - Complaints Involving Sex Crimes

Overview

Use when handling any qualifying sex crime complaint. The first priorities are victim care, evidence protection, and Special Victims Unit notification.

Decision Guide

What sex-crime response posture applies right now?

Full Checklist

Eligibility / Scope Rules

  • •For this PG, sex crime includes the relevant Penal Law Article 130 offenses plus the specified offenses in Articles 230 and 255.
  • •Any complaint involving sex-related offenses, including secondary sex-related offenses, requires Special Victims Unit notification.
  • •Department policy is to refer the complaint, not the complainant. A sex-crime complainant is never directed to another Department unit or facility to make the report.

Scene / Patrol Response

  • •Render reasonable aid, prepare an AIDED REPORT if applicable, and take the victim to a hospital if necessary.
  • •Encourage necessary medical attention even when the victim is reluctant to go to the hospital.
  • •Inform the victim of the right to have a sexual assault advocate present during the interview.
  • •Attempt to apprehend the perpetrator if present and establish/safeguard the crime scene and physical evidence.

Notifications / SVU Response

  • •Request the patrol supervisor and notify the desk officer.
  • •Patrol supervisor promptly reports all sex crime cases to Special Victims Unit and coordinates the patrol response.
  • •If the incident occurs in housing or transit jurisdiction, notify the appropriate PSA or transit desk officer.
  • •Patrol supervisor safeguards the crime scene pending arrival of Detective Bureau personnel.
  • •If Special Victims Unit is not responding, have a Report Worksheet prepared.
  • •If an arrest is effected by patrol, immediately report details to the desk officer and Special Victims Unit from the scene.

Hospital / Arrest / Victim Services

  • •Hospital walk-in complaints with no prior police contact are referred directly by 911/Communications to Special Victims Unit; patrol members are not sent to conduct the interview branch.
  • •Provide written notice with the nearest rape crisis center information.
  • •Advise eligible victims about the Address Confidentiality Program and survivor rights materials.
  • •Record Special Victims Unit notification, squad, investigator, and case number on the complaint paperwork.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

NYPD Special Victims Hotline

24-hour sex crimes reporting line

NYPD Special Victims Hotline

24-hour sex crimes reporting line

PG

Emotionally Disturbed Person

Containment, de-escalation, ESU escalation, and medical removal

P.G. 221-13 - Mentally Ill or Emotionally Disturbed Persons

Overview

Use when a person appears mentally ill or temporarily deranged and is likely to cause serious injury to self or others. The scene should be slowed, contained, and medically resolved whenever possible.

Decision Guide

Which EDP condition best matches the scene?

Full Checklist

Eligibility / Scope Rules

  • •An EDP is a person who appears mentally ill or temporarily deranged and is acting in a way reasonably likely to result in serious injury to self or others.
  • •The safety of all persons involved is paramount, and only the reasonable force necessary to gain control or custody is used.
  • •When there is time to negotiate, all the time necessary to ensure safety should be used.

Immediate Actions

  • •Review EDP history if available, request Communications contact the complainant while en route, and transmit 10-84 on arrival.
  • •Request / ensure response of patrol supervisor, ambulance, additional personnel, and ESU if necessary.
  • •Assess the threat, gather tactical information, slow the pace, establish dialogue, and maintain a zone of safety.
  • •If assigned a Body-Worn Camera, comply with the BWC PG. Carry the three-foot polycarbonate shield with door bag if available.

Containment / Escalation

  • •Attempt to isolate and contain the EDP while awaiting the patrol supervisor and specialized personnel.
  • •If the EDP is isolated/contained but will not leave voluntarily, request HNT, coordinator, and TARU through Communications and follow hostage/barricade procedures where appropriate.
  • •If the EDP presents an immediate threat of serious physical injury or death, take reasonable measures to terminate or prevent the behavior and use deadly force only as a last resort.
  • •Supervisors establish firearms control, verify ESU response when required, and may employ less-lethal devices when necessary.

After Restraint

  • •Remove dangerous property, transport the EDP to a hospital by ambulance when possible, and never bring an EDP to a police facility.
  • •Ride with the EDP, inform the physician of any less-lethal device use, and safeguard at the hospital until psychiatric evaluation.
  • •Document the incident in the digital Activity Log, prepare the AIDED REPORT, and finalize with the proper EDP radio code.
  • •If applicable, record CIT-trained member involvement and psychiatrist information on the reporting.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

NYC 988

Mental health crisis support

SH

Hostage / Barricaded Person

Specialized response, containment, and negotiator-driven resolution

P.G. 221-14 - Hostage/Barricaded Person(s)

The standalone 221-14 text was not present in the local extraction. This card is built from direct PG references to 221-14 within related EDP, school emergency, and DOE camera procedures.

Overview

Use when a subject is barricaded, refusing surrender, or holding hostages. This is a specialized containment and negotiation event.

Decision Guide

What hostage / barricaded posture best matches the incident?

Full Checklist

Eligibility / Scope Rules

  • •This event is for barricaded persons, hostage takers, and related containment emergencies requiring specialized tactical and negotiation response.
  • •The local extraction did not contain standalone P.G. 221-14 text, so this card is grounded in direct local references to that procedure from related Patrol Guide sections.
  • •Where the facts also involve an active shooter, armed EDP, or school emergency, comply with those companion procedures in parallel.

Immediate Actions

  • •Treat the scene as a containment event and avoid unnecessary action that escalates risk.
  • •Request patrol supervisor, ESU, and specialized resources immediately.
  • •Maintain distance, cover, firearms control, and clear communication between responding units.
  • •Contain and isolate the subject or location whenever tactically feasible.

Notifications / Support Resources

  • •Request HNT and coordinator through Communications when the subject is isolated/contained and refusing to surrender.
  • •Desk officer / command notifications should include Operations Unit, patrol borough command, and commanding officer / duty captain.
  • •If available and operationally appropriate, request TARU / DOE camera access support under the applicable emergency camera procedure.
  • •Where visual assistance would materially improve tactical awareness, consider authorized Department UAS support.

Operational Priorities

  • •Contain, isolate, negotiate, and avoid independent action by responding units.
  • •Use ESU supervisor and commanding officer / duty captain to coordinate tactics and any alternate means of restraint.
  • •Do not transition to forced action unless authorized and required by immediate life-safety circumstances.
  • •If firearms or special weapons are implicated, comply with the applicable firearms-control and special-weapons procedures.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

PG

Aided Case

Medical aid, ambulance coordination, and required notifications

P.G. 216-01 - Aided Cases General Procedure

Overview

Use for sick, injured, dead, lost, mentally ill, runaway, abandoned, or other non-prisoner aided situations requiring police-assisted medical or protective response.

Decision Guide

What aided-case posture applies?

Full Checklist

Eligibility / Scope Rules

  • •An aided case is a non-prisoner incident requiring medical aid or assistance because the person is sick, injured, dead, lost, mentally ill, abandoned, runaway, care-dependent, homeless, or otherwise within the PG definition.
  • •Routine sick at home requires only a digital Activity Log entry if the aided is conscious and identified, no other service or notification is needed, no dependent adults or uncared-for children are present, and no investigation is required.
  • •Routine sick in nursing homes is generally not a patrol response unless the case is other than a routine sick.

Immediate Actions

  • •Render reasonable aid and request an ambulance or doctor when necessary.
  • •Wait in view to direct the ambulance, make a second call in twenty minutes if it does not arrive, and document the ACR/PCR number.
  • •Accompany an unconscious or unidentified aided to the hospital in the body of the ambulance.
  • •If the aided wears a Medic Alert emblem, notify the dispatcher and ambulance attendant; do not remove the emblem.

Notifications / Special Cases

  • •Obtain name, address, and telephone number of a relative or friend for notification.
  • •Have relatives or friends notified if the aided is admitted to a hospital or dies.
  • •Desk officer ensures required notifications are made, especially when the aided is seriously injured or likely to die.
  • •Desk officer notifies Adult Protective Services when a dependent adult needs care due to arrest, hospitalization, or death of a guardian.
  • •For non-life-threatening EMS treatment/removal disputes, request the patrol supervisor and EMS supervisor.

Reporting

  • •Prepare the AIDED REPORT and submit it to the desk officer.
  • •If the aided is unidentified, classify as unidentified and inform the desk officer.
  • •If the incident is a non-life-threatening mental health support issue without danger, consider referral to NYC 988, but not in lieu of EDP procedures.
  • •If the aided was removed before arrival, still obtain the aided's location and the information needed for the AIDED REPORT.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

NYC 988

Mental health crisis support

MV

Subway Track / Train Emergency

Power removal, tunnel safety, and transit command notifications

P.G. 212-24 - Removal of Power in Subway

This card focuses on emergency power-removal and track-response steps.

Overview

Use for life-threatening subway track incidents where tunnel entry, train movement, or third-rail power removal may become operational issues.

Decision Guide

What subway track / tunnel posture applies?

Full Checklist

Eligibility / Scope Rules

  • •Removal of subway power is extremely hazardous, dangerous, and disruptive and should be requested only in extreme emergencies involving life-threatening situations.
  • •Track entry itself is also an extreme measure; members do not enter the track area except in extreme emergencies.

Immediate Actions

  • •Do not enter the track area except in extreme emergencies.
  • •Notify the radio dispatcher and provide condition, suspect, weapon, and direction details.
  • •Request Patrol Services Bureau and Transit Bureau patrol supervisors plus enough units to secure the platform and tunnel access points.
  • •Request ESU, detective squad, Crime Scene Unit, and other specialized units as needed.

Notifications / Command

  • •Patrol supervisor determines whether police action in the tunnel is necessary and whether power removal is required.
  • •Notify Operations Unit of the time power removal is requested and again when power is restored.
  • •District commander / duty captain responds and supervises police operations.
  • •Operations / member concerned notifies the Police Commissioner's Office, Office of Chief of Department, and Transit Bureau Wheel of police-caused power removal and later restoration.

Emergency Power Removal

  • •Only personally shut off power when there is grave, imminent danger and no safer alternative.
  • •If immediate removal is required, pull the emergency alarm box lever and immediately notify the Rapid Transit Operations Command Center Desk Superintendent by the alarm-box phone.
  • •If phone notification cannot be made, notify the radio dispatcher and request immediate notification to the Desk Superintendent.
  • •After the condition is corrected and all personnel are clear of the tracks, confer with NYC Transit about restoring power immediately.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

FI

Fire

Life safety, FDNY coordination, and perimeter control

P.G. 212-58 - Fire

Overview

Use for 10-59 fire responses. NYPD’s role is life safety, evacuation support, perimeter control, communications, and coordination with FDNY.

Decision Guide

What is the main fire condition when you arrive?

Full Checklist

Eligibility / Scope Rules

  • •NYPD's role at a fire is to protect life and property and facilitate fire operations, not to conduct fire suppression.
  • •Members generally should await FDNY and assist with evacuation, access control, and secure perimeters.
  • •Absent exigent circumstances, members should not operate above the fire floor or navigate smoke-filled or fiery environments.

Immediate Actions

  • •Transmit 10-84 on arrival, ensure FDNY is responding, and provide pertinent updates.
  • •Secure the area in front of the building, keep hydrants clear, assist evacuations as appropriate, and prevent reentry.
  • •Avoid entering a burning building absent exigent circumstances; if entry is necessary, notify the dispatcher first and proceed with caution.
  • •Do not use elevators if entry becomes necessary; use stairs and inspect for smoke, heat, and safe refuge options.

Notifications / ICP

  • •Patrol supervisor responds to all building/structure fires, confers with FDNY, and requests the precinct detective squad if the fire is suspicious.
  • •First supervisor at scene proceeds to the FDNY Incident Command Post and advises FDNY if any members are inside the building.
  • •Desk officer notifies Operations Unit and borough command for injury/death, three alarms or more, unusual fires, suspicious cause, forced FDNY entry, or tenant relocation.
  • •For second-alarm fires, the duty captain is directed to the scene through Operations Unit.

Operational Priorities

  • •Establish police lines beyond fire apparatus and hydrants and control access through the fire lines.
  • •Prepare an AIDED REPORT for each injured person and a complaint report if the fire is suspicious.
  • •Secure the premises after firefighting operations conclude.
  • •Coordinate closely with FDNY as the primary agency and maintain crowd / traffic control responsibilities.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

PG

HazMat / CBRN Incident

Unknown substance isolation, perimeter control, and ESU/JTTF coordination

P.G. 212-101 - Processing Unknown Substances Suspected of Being CBRN / Hazardous Materials Evidence

Decision Guide

What CBRN / hazardous-material posture applies?

Full Checklist

Eligibility / Scope Rules

  • •Unknown substances suspected of being chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or hazardous-material agents are treated as criminal / terrorism incidents even if they may appear accidental.
  • •If an explosive substance or explosive device may be involved, use the bomb-threat / explosive-device procedure instead of this PG.

Immediate Actions

  • •Conduct a preliminary investigation and request the patrol supervisor.
  • •If the substance cannot be readily identified as non-hazardous, notify Communications, desk officer, Operations Unit, and precinct detective squad.
  • •Evacuate exposed persons, identify anyone suffering ill effects, isolate exposed persons for possible decontamination, and limit movement in potentially contaminated areas.
  • •Establish an inner perimeter, crime scene, and outer perimeter of appropriate size.

Perimeters / Notifications

  • •Request response of commanding officer / executive officer / duty captain, ESU, and FDNY if needed for life safety operations.
  • •Command / Operations coordinates the scene and notifies NYCEM, FDNY, and the Intelligence and Counterterrorism Bureau Operations Desk.
  • •ESU coordinates with JTTF, DEP/HMRU, DOHMH, and other required agencies.

Follow-Up / Reporting

  • •Prepare a separate AIDED REPORT for each exposed individual and a complaint report worksheet classified as Investigate Suspicious Substance.
  • •If a MOS is exposed, follow the infectious disease / hazardous materials exposure procedure.
  • •If laboratory submission is approved, maintain chain of custody through the Evidence Collection/Tracking Form, direct lab delivery, and final invoicing / result notifications.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

Terrorism Hot-Line

Official NYPD public terrorism tip line

PG

Gunshot Detection Alert

Canvass, confirm/unconfirm, preserve evidence, and escalate confirmed shootings

P.G. 212-127 - Gunshot Detection Alerts

Decision Guide

How did the gunshot detection alert resolve on scene?

Full Checklist

Eligibility / Scope Rules

  • •Gunshot detection alerts are system-generated notifications that shots may have been fired at a given location.
  • •Confirmed status is based on on-scene findings such as a person shot, blood, ballistic evidence, property damage from gunfire, corroborating 911 calls, or an eyewitness/earwitness.

Immediate Actions

  • •Respond to the scene and canvass for perpetrators, victims, evidence, and witnesses.
  • •Ascertain whether the alert is confirmed or unconfirmed and establish a crime scene if necessary.
  • •Safeguard ballistic and firearms evidence and request TARU if video retrieval assistance is needed.
  • •Ensure Body-Worn Camera activation as required.

Notifications / Confirmed Alert Response

  • •Notify the patrol supervisor and Communications Section whether the alert is confirmed or unconfirmed.
  • •Patrol supervisor responds to all confirmed alerts, notifies the desk officer, precinct detective squad, and requests CSU or ECT.
  • •For confirmed alerts, request the commanding officer, executive officer, or duty captain through Communications.
  • •Desk officer provides updates on confirmed alerts to Operations Unit, patrol borough command, and command leadership.

Reporting

  • •Prepare a complaint report worksheet for all gunshot detection alerts and mark that the incident originated from a gunshot detection alert.
  • •Check the Shots Fired caption in all cases.
  • •Confirmed cases remain open to precinct detective squad and may require a daylight canvass for additional evidence and witnesses.
  • •Command / first platoon reviews reports, alert audio, and ICAD narratives to determine whether a daylight canvass is needed.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

Crime Stoppers

Anonymous tips

MV

Serious Collision

Death, critical injury, or likely-to-die motor vehicle collision

P.G. 217-02 - Vehicle Collisions Which Result in Death, Serious Injury and Likely to Die, or Critical Injury

Decision Guide

What serious-collision posture applies?

Full Checklist

Eligibility / Scope Rules

  • •This procedure applies when a vehicle collision results in death, serious injury and likely to die, or critical injury.
  • •Critical injury is determined based on the on-scene assessment of EMS personnel.

Immediate Actions

  • •Detain drivers, occupants, vehicles, and witnesses.
  • •Ensure operators remain at the scene unless removed for immediate medical care or otherwise directed by a supervisor.
  • •Do not unnecessarily disturb the collision scene; mark positions if a person or vehicle must be moved.
  • •Confer with EMS on whether any involved person has been classified as critically injured.

Notifications / Specialized Response

  • •Request the patrol supervisor.
  • •Patrol supervisor requests Precinct Detective Squad, Highway District Collision Technician Group, and Highway District Collision Investigation Squad.
  • •Notify the desk officer and commanding officer / duty captain; notify Operations Unit if an extended roadway closure is required.
  • •If a member of the service is involved and suspected of impairment, immediately notify commanding officer / duty captain.

Investigation / Reporting

  • •Observe all operators for signs of intoxication or impairment and effect arrest if probable cause exists.
  • •Desk officer has a separate complaint report prepared for each deceased, critically injured, or likely-to-die victim.
  • •Ensure timely notifications to relatives or friends, documented on the collision paperwork.
  • •Collision Investigation Squad notifies the District Attorney before the investigation concludes and prepares the required collision/fatality reports.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

AC

Aircraft Accident

Aided response, scene security, and aviation notifications

P.G. 217-08 - Aircraft Accidents

Decision Guide

What aircraft-accident posture applies on arrival?

Full Checklist

Eligibility / Scope Rules

  • •Apply this procedure on arrival at the scene of an aircraft accident, together with Aided Cases - General Procedure.
  • •The authorized FAA or Aviation Unit investigator determines cause and recommends release of the pilot and aircraft when feasible.

Immediate Actions

  • •Follow Aided Cases - General Procedure first.
  • •Request the patrol supervisor and notify the desk officer.
  • •Detain the pilot and aircraft.
  • •Safeguard evidence until examined by authorized personnel.
  • •Advise the owner or pilot of the responsibility to report the accident to the desk officer within ten hours and that failure to do so is a misdemeanor.

Notifications / Investigation

  • •Desk officer notifies detective squad, Operations Unit, duty captain, and borough office.
  • •Authorized FAA or Aviation Unit investigators determine the cause of the accident, supply the necessary information to the detective concerned, and recommend release of the pilot and aircraft when feasible.

Reporting

  • •Supervising officer in command prepares and forwards an Unusual Occurrence Report with two extra copies for Chief of Special Operations.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

ID

Rapid Mobilization

Escalation framework for unusual disorder / emergency incidents

P.G. 213-03 - Rapid Mobilization

Decision Guide

What mobilization authority / level posture applies?

Full Checklist

Eligibility / Scope Rules

  • •Use this procedure when immediate assistance is required at the scene of an unusual disorder or emergency incident.
  • •A patrol supervisor may activate Level 1; Levels 2, 3, and 4 require captain-or-above authorization.

Immediate Actions

  • •Patrol supervisor assesses the incident and may activate Mobilization Level 1 through the radio dispatcher.
  • •For a missing-person investigation, consult commanding officer / duty captain before Level 1 activation absent exigent circumstances.
  • •If assistance beyond Level 1 is needed, notify the commanding officer / duty captain immediately.
  • •Designate the mobilization point, response route, staging security, and traffic-post coverage.

Notifications / Command

  • •Platoon commander responds and assumes Incident Commander duties; duty captain responds immediately upon activation.
  • •Activating supervisor notifies Operations Unit and patrol borough concerned and continues regular updates.
  • •Affected patrol boroughs, divisions, and bureaus are notified to stage required personnel and equipment.
  • •Operations Unit is responsible for required notifications after Level 2, 3, or 4 activation.

Operational Priorities / Resources

  • •Maintain control of members, brief ranking responders, and prepare command-post / staging operations.
  • •Mobilized sergeants and lieutenants form squads or mobile field forces and ensure proper equipment, route, and radio discipline.
  • •Level 2 through 4 mobilizations expand specialized resources such as SRG, ESU, TARU, aviation, traffic, arrest-processing, and command-post assets.
  • •Incident command remains with the appropriate highest-ranking operational supervisor until transfer or demobilization.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

SH

Unusual Disorder

Command-post, deployment, and disorder-control checklist

P.G. 213-05 - Duties at an Unusual Disorder

This card covers non-First Amendment activity related unusual disorders.

Decision Guide

What unusual-disorder command posture applies?

Full Checklist

Eligibility / Scope Rules

  • •This procedure applies to non-First Amendment activity related unusual disorders.
  • •For First Amendment activity related unusual disorders, follow the separate tiered-response procedure.

Command Post / Setup

  • •Report to the command post, obtain an assessment while en route, and assume the Incident Commander role under Rapid Mobilization.
  • •Designate a suitable mobilization point and arrange traffic posts and security posts there.
  • •Ensure a staffed command post is operating and identify Operations, Intelligence, Personnel/Admin, and Logistics functions.
  • •Establish radio/cellular communication plans and coordinate frequencies with Communications Section.

Deployment Priorities

  • •Formulate a plan based on crowd size, movement, motivation, intent, leadership, boundaries, and whether violence/property damage is occurring.
  • •Control rumors and identify likely future target locations when applicable.
  • •Sector the disorder area, contain or exclude disorderly groups, deploy strategic response resources, and direct arrests when necessary.
  • •Deploy two-thirds of enforcement personnel and hold one-third in reserve.

Notifications / Supervision

  • •Provide patrol borough and Operations Unit with regular updates and any unusual developments or resource needs.
  • •Brief all supervisors on mission, objectives, frequency, command post, arrest processing, tactics, reporting schedules, team concept, and minimum force expectations.
  • •Lieutenants and sergeants inspect personnel, enforce radio discipline, and maintain formation / prohibited-conduct rules.
  • •Prepare for orderly relief and handoff between outgoing and incoming incident commanders.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

PG

School-Related Threat

Threat response at DOE school/property

P.G. 215-27 - School Related Threats at a NYC Department of Education School/Property

Decision Guide

What school-related threat posture applies?

Full Checklist

Eligibility / Scope Rules

  • •This procedure applies when a school-related threat is made at a NYC Department of Education school/property.
  • •A school-related threat here means a threat with no corroborating evidence to support that it will be carried out.

Immediate Actions

  • •Confer with School Safety Division Counterterrorism Unit before taking enforcement action against a student regarding the threat.
  • •Ascertain from the principal or school staff any pertinent information about the student and the specific details of the threat.
  • •Request response of the patrol supervisor.
  • •Take reasonable action to ensure the safety of students and school administrators while the investigation proceeds.

Notifications / Review

  • •School Safety Division Counterterrorism Unit / patrol supervisor makes the threat recommendation and the patrol supervisor ensures the required conferral occurred.
  • •If there is disagreement with SSD Counterterrorism personnel, confer with the SSD Counterterrorism Unit supervisor.
  • •If still not in agreement, notify the commanding officer / duty captain.

Operational Priorities

  • •When enforcement action is taken in a DOE facility or on DOE property, comply with P.G. 215-17.
  • •Commanding officer / duty captain reviews the circumstances and makes the final determination regarding action to be taken.
  • •If information suggests a terrorism connection, comply with P.G. 212-110.
  • •If SSD Counterterrorism determines the matter is a low-level, unverified threat referred back to the school for discipline and/or counseling, Intelligence Division notification is not required on that basis alone.

Public Contacts

Emergency

Immediate emergency response

Crime Stoppers

Anonymous tips