What should be understood by the term "Out of service"?

The term "Out of service" is understood to mean that the unit is not available for responses. This designation indicates that the unit cannot participate in calls or emergencies for a specified period. Being out of service can occur for various reasons, such as maintenance, being assigned to a specific task that does not involve immediate call response, or other operational reasons that require the unit to temporarily suspend its active duty status.

Understanding this term is crucial for dispatch operations, as it helps ensure that resources are allocated efficiently. Knowing which units are out of service allows dispatchers to make informed decisions about unit assignments and response times during emergencies. It differentiates from scenarios where units might be active, available but engaged in routine breaks, or preparing for further duties shortly.