When issuing verbal or written authorities, the time used must be the CAD screen display, not other references. Which option correctly identifies the required time source?

• A. CAD Screen Display
• B. Local Wall Clock
• C. Dispatcher Memory
• D. Paper Log Time

Answer: (A)

The time used for verbal or written authorities must come from the CAD screen display because it provides a single, official timestamp that is synchronized with the dispatch system and track authority records. This ensures everyone references the exact same moment in time, which is crucial for determining the validity window of the authority and for audit trails. Other sources—like a local wall clock, dispatcher memory, or a paper log—can drift, be incomplete, or reflect time after the fact, creating inconsistencies and potential safety or compliance issues. So the CAD screen display is the authoritative time source.