Header:

Destination – directs the message to its proper destination.  The header consists of the destination agency Mnemonic, Physical Station Number (PSN) or NCIC Agency Identifier (ORI).

Attention:

Designate whom in the department the message is intended for.  If desirable, direct the message to the specific section or person within that department.

Reference:

General purpose of the message.  May also be used when there have been previous messages on the same topic or situation.  List the original message number(s) and date(s).

Message Text:

Body of the message.  Be brief, but give complete details and describe the action requested  Avoid the use of ten codes and sayings like “BOLO” or “Stop and Advise.”  Persons or property that qualify for entry must be entered into the data files prior to sending and administrative message pertaining to them.

Authority:

The complete name of your department (Include city, state, and your agency’s NCIC Agency Identifier for out-of-state messages).

Operator:

Last name or initials of the individual sending the message.