III-E-26 Incident Command System (ICS) (Including Attachments) 03/24/2021
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of the Incident Command System (ICS)?

  • To provide training for new recruits
  • To manage personnel and resources during incidents (correct)
  • To evaluate the performance of responders
  • To provide equipment for emergency response

    • Which of the following is NOT a function of the ICS?

  • Providing effective communication
  • Assigning blame for failures (correct)
  • Establishing a command organization
  • Facilitating transfer of command

    • Who is responsible for developing the organizational structure at an incident scene?

  • The local police department
  • The Incident Commander (IC) (correct)
  • The first responder on the scene
  • The emergency operations center

    • How does the command organization adapt to the scale of the incident?

    <p>By maintaining a size that matches the incident complexity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the initial command procedure based on?

    <p>The presence of three or more resources (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the key objectives of the ICS?

    <p>To facilitate completion of incident priorities (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is required for an Incident Commander to effectively manage an incident?

    <p>Control over the positions and functions of resources (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What balance must the Incident Commander achieve in incident management?

    <p>Harmony between resource management and incident needs (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the highest priority during an incident according to the incident priorities?

    <p>Life Safety (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be recognized as inherent risks to the safety of personnel when protecting property?

    <p>Routine precautionary measures (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which strategy focuses on accomplishing incident objectives related to savable lives and property?

    <p>Offensive Strategy (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the 'SMART' acronym in incident objectives stand for?

    <p>Specific, Measurable, Action-oriented, Realistic, Time-sensitive (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which command level is responsible for ensuring that the tactics deployed align with the incident objectives?

    <p>Tactical (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During an incident, how many functions of command must be immediately addressed by the Incident Commander (IC)?

    <p>Five (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What principle does Unity of Command emphasize within the ICS organization?

    <p>Each person reports to one designated person (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended span of control for efficient management during fast moving complex operations?

    <p>1:5 (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When may both offensive and defensive strategies be employed simultaneously?

    <p>On incidents where both savable and unsavable lives/property exist (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must an Incident Commander (IC) do if resources receive conflicting orders?

    <p>Notify the IC and the previous supervisor (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Actions that present a significant risk to personnel are allowed only when which condition is met?

    <p>There is potential to save endangered lives (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are tactics defined as in the context of an incident?

    <p>Actions taken to accomplish incident objectives (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which function of command includes the development and revision of the Incident Action Plan (IAP)?

    <p>Choosing Strategy (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does effective communication involve when duplex mode is poor?

    <p>Switching to simplex mode as directed by the IC (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of the URGENT radio announcement?

    <p>To prevent injury to firefighters (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who establishes Command at a scene of a multiple unit response?

    <p>First arriving firefighter (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must all resources do upon arrival at the incident?

    <p>Report to Command (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following indicates a need to clear the air for an important message that does not fall under MAYDAY or URGENT?

    <p>Priority Announcement (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the first step in the initial radio report upon arrival at the scene?

    <p>Clear the radio air traffic (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What terminology is used to describe the front of the building during a size-up?

    <p>Alpha Side (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which signal code indicates that there is a structure fire requiring SCBA and deployment of a hoseline?

    <p>Working Fire (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How often must supervisors communicate with all resources under their supervision?

    <p>Continuously during incident operations (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    If an incident does not involve structures, which method of direction may be used?

    <p>North, South, East, West compass directions (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should the initial resource do after establishing Command?

    <p>Remain in Command until the incident is resolved (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following strategies can be established after the initial radio report?

    <p>Offensive or Defensive (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is required if a unit or dispatcher does not acknowledge the MAYDAY or URGENT?

    <p>Advise the IC of the emergency immediately (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which side of the building is referred to as Exposure Bravo 2?

    <p>Two units to the left of the Alpha side (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should interior units do if they cannot communicate with the Incident Commander (IC) in duplex mode?

    <p>Confirm they are on the proper channel and then inform the IC they are operating on simplex. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important for the IC to notify the Fire Alarm Office (FAO) when units are communicating in simplex mode?

    <p>Because FAO cannot hear simplex communications and may miss urgent requests. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should staff personnel notify Command of their arrival at the incident scene?

    <p>Using the mobile computer unit or another radio frequency. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a requirement for read back of radio messages to confirm receipt and understanding?

    <p>It should summarize the key parts of the message. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason for directing communications only to the intended receiver?

    <p>To maintain radio discipline and reduce traffic. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does 'Span of Control' in communications specify?

    <p>Communications should only go through the established chain of command. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the correct protocol when an emergency transmission of MAYDAY is made?

    <p>MAYDAY should be announced three times along with identification details. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does the Incident Commander (IC) play in radio communications?

    <p>The IC must oversee all communications and direct them appropriately. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done regarding unnecessary radio traffic during an emergency situation?

    <p>Reduce it to maintain focus and comprehension. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should resources be requested during an emergency incident?

    <p>In sufficient force to ensure proper mitigation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most critical aspect of radio discipline during an emergency?

    <p>To ensure only emergency traffic is communicated until cleared by the IC. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should personnel do before activating the radio microphone?

    <p>Confirm the air is clear and know what needs to be said. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens if the Unit Officer in Charge (OIC) cannot reach their direct supervisor?

    <p>They must raise the next line supervisor or the FAO. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which four aspects are communicated during the transfer of command?

    <p>Scene drawing or description (A), Resource report (C), Incident organization (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of a Tactical Worksheet?

    <p>To track resources and incident objectives (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How often does the FAO provide incident time updates during the first 30 minutes?

    <p>Every 10 minutes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the acronym CAN stand for in progress reports?

    <p>Conditions, Actions, Needs (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the three areas or zones in the 3-Deep Deployment Model?

    <p>Hot Zone, On-deck, Staging (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should units that arrive during greater alarms do upon reaching the incident?

    <p>Make face-to-face contact with the Staging Area Manager (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is Level 1 Staging protocol?

    <p>All units should stage approximately one block from the scene (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should Unit Officers handle their Driver/Operators during a greater alarm assignment?

    <p>D/Os will report with the crew when given an assignment (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When an Unit OIC has no Needs in their CAN report, what should they communicate?

    <p>No needs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main goal of announcing incident times?

    <p>To ensure proper strategic planning and assessment of structural stability (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the Staging Area used for during an incident?

    <p>To have units in close proximity to the incident for possible assignment (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What communication occurs when there is an emergency incident report from E44?

    <p>Conditions, Actions, Needs report (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a critical aspect of transferring command between Chiefs?

    <p>Detailing the current status of tactical operations (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must the Incident Commander (IC) include when requesting greater alarms?

    <p>The location of the Level 2 Staging Area (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who assumes the Staging Area Manager role if not designated by the IC?

    <p>The first Unit Officer in Charge (OIC) arriving at the Staging Area (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which task is NOT a responsibility of the Staging Area Manager?

    <p>Ensure that units are not freelancing (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a Rapid Intervention Crew (RIC) comprised of?

    <p>One suppression or rescue unit with at least three personnel (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the Tactical Reserve primarily consist of?

    <p>An adequate assortment of unassigned resources in staging (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What primary function does the Rehabilitation Unit (Rehab) serve?

    <p>To evaluate and support firefighters' welfare during incidents (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended time for Command to contact before a crew hits its work cycle limit?

    <p>Five minutes (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which system is used to ensure accountability during emergency operations?

    <p>Passport Accountability System® (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens once the rehabilitation process is completed for a firefighter?

    <p>Their air bottles may be replaced if not already done (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is responsible for ensuring the safety and accountability of all personnel assigned during an incident?

    <p>The Incident Commander (IC) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is NOT considered when determining reflex time from Staging to the assigned work area?

    <p>Type of equipment available (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the Staging Area, the requests made to the Staging Area Manager include:

    <p>Details of needed equipment or personnel (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What guidelines can be referred to for the rehabilitation of personnel?

    <p>SOP I-E-1 Emergency Operations Rehabilitation (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Freelancing during an incident is:

    <p>Not permitted at all (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should a Division/Group Supervisor do if they cannot control the resources within their Division/Group?

    <p>Notify the Incident Commander for corrective action (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How are Divisions in multi-story occupancies typically indicated?

    <p>By floor numbers, such as Division 15 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the acronym CAN stand for in progress reports?

    <p>Conditions, Actions, Needs (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which responsibility is NOT typically assigned to the Division/Group Supervisor?

    <p>Directly handle all firefighting operations (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should a supervisor do when a unit is assigned from Staging to their Division/Group?

    <p>Inform the unit about the assigned Supervisor and Division/Group (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In terms of communications, how should Division/Group Supervisors transmit progress reports?

    <p>Over radio communications using specific designations (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the Operations Section Chief support the Incident Commander?

    <p>By communicating tactical objectives to Supervisors and Directors (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is essential for a Division/Group Supervisor to be able to do?

    <p>Remain in a visible position for effective monitoring (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of Section Chiefs within the ICS structure?

    <p>To assist the IC with overall incident management (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is required for effective accountability during unit reassignment?

    <p>Passport must travel with the unit and be held by the supervisor (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which responsibility is specifically mentioned for Division/Group Supervisors regarding resources?

    <p>Re-allocate resources within their Division/Group (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should Division/Group Supervisors do if they need additional resources?

    <p>Request them immediately from Command (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should a Division/Group Supervisor contact the assigned unit upon their arrival?

    <p>Meet them directly to give instructions (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the initial step following an evacuation or abandonment order according to the personnel accountability procedures?

    <p>Conduct a Personnel Accountability Report (PAR). (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In cases where personnel are unaccounted for during an incident, who is responsible for passing this information to Command?

    <p>The Unit OIC only. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one reason for establishing divisions or groups during complex incidents?

    <p>To reduce the span of control to a manageable level. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should Unit Leaders and Division Supervisors do if a crew exceeds their reflex time?

    <p>Raise the unit for accountability and ETA. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should routine communications within a Division/Group ideally be conducted?

    <p>Face-to-face between Unit Officers and their Supervisor. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should Command begin to assign Divisions or Groups?

    <p>When managing resources becomes unmanageable. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the optimum span of control for a Division/Group Supervisor?

    <p>Three to seven units. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary responsibility of a Division/Group Supervisor regarding resources?

    <p>To manage the tactical deployment of resources assigned to them. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of the Incident Command System, how should a Division/Group Supervisor monitor hazards?

    <p>Through constant communication with all assigned units. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of Command when establishing a Division/Group?

    <p>To assign tactical objectives and provide resources to the Divisions/Groups. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following factors indicates it is necessary to establish Divisions/Groups?

    <p>Complex operations requiring close control over resources. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When transitioning to a new assignment, what must crews do?

    <p>Report without delay to their new assignment directly. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action should Command take when a Division/Group Supervisor cannot account for certain units?

    <p>Command must be informed of unaccounted units for further action. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does effective communication within a Division/Group primarily aim to reduce?

    <p>The use of radio communications. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key role of the Operations Section Chief during an incident?

    <p>Assigning units based on tactical objectives. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can confusion during a major incident be minimized when implementing an Operations radio designation?

    <p>By using an alert tone followed by announcements of the new channel. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which responsibility is NOT a primary role of the Planning Section Chief?

    <p>Managing the Base operations for logistics. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the primary responsibilities of the Logistics Section Chief?

    <p>Managing Base operations and support activities. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the Planning Section support the Incident Commander?

    <p>By serving as a clearing house for information. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a critical first responsibility of the Planning Section Chief at the onset of an incident?

    <p>Resource tracking and documentation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of Technical Specialists within the Incident Command System?

    <p>They possess specialized skills activated when needed. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which section do financial evaluations and documentation occur during an incident?

    <p>Finance/Administration Section (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which is NOT a responsibility of the Logistics Section?

    <p>Forecasting operational tactics. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the ideal situation regarding the location of the IC and Operations Section Chief during an incident?

    <p>They should be located at the Command Post together. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What important factor must the Operations Section Chief consider when managing tactical activities?

    <p>Life safety and risk management. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary responsibility of the Assistant Area Commander – Logistics?

    <p>Providing facilities, services, and materials at the Area Command location. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a duty of the Base Manager once established?

    <p>Designating a parking area for personnel. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What primarily guides the Planning Section Chief during an incident?

    <p>Effective decision-making and resource planning. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which position is responsible for assessing potential conflicts between established incident objectives and resource priorities?

    <p>Assistant Area Commander – Planning (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who assumes the role of Area Commander for the affected jurisdiction?

    <p>Operations Division Chief (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes a characteristic of Technical Specialists in the ICS?

    <p>They perform their usual job duties in the incident. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the responsibilities of an Area Commander?

    <p>Coordinating the demobilization of resources. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which command structure position assists the Area Commander by making logistical arrangements?

    <p>Assistant Area Commander – Logistics (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the Area Commander ensure clarity among the ICs regarding expectations?

    <p>By implementing organizational structures. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must the Assistant Area Commander – Planning prepare and distribute?

    <p>Area Commander’s decisions or orders. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of the Assistant Area Commander – Logistics?

    <p>Recommend allocations of critical resources. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action must the Area Commander take to facilitate effective resource use during incidents?

    <p>Determine and implement an Area Command organization. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements best describes the relationship between Area Command and incident management teams?

    <p>Area Command coordinates the efforts of multiple incident management teams. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be the primary action for later arriving Battalion Chiefs at an incident?

    <p>Assigned to supervise critical Division/Group assignments (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does the first arriving Division Chief assume after conducting a size-up?

    <p>Incident Commander (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    If the Battalion Chief remains as the Incident Commander, what position does the Division Chief take?

    <p>Senior Advisor to the IC (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is considered essential for the rapid control of emergency operations?

    <p>Written Incident Action Plans (IAPs) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of the Operations Section Chief in Unified Command?

    <p>Select representatives as Deputy Operations Chiefs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a requirement for a written IAP in large scale incidents?

    <p>It must be created and maintained during each operational period (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under what condition can an officer assume Command at an incident?

    <p>Only after a formal Transfer of Command Briefing (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does size-up begin in the context of action planning?

    <p>Identifying operational strategies (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be assessed after the IAP is established and resources are committed?

    <p>Effectiveness of the IAP (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key function of Area Command?

    <p>Developing broad objectives for multiple incidents (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must the Operations Section Chief do in Unified Command?

    <p>Select a Deputy from one of the represented agencies (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During an operational period what strategy do IAPs outline?

    <p>Overall incident strategies and specific actions (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When is the Mobile Command Post (MCP) automatically dispatched?

    <p>On Second Alarms and greater (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In terms of command organization, what does Unified Command ensure?

    <p>One integrated incident organization (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary responsibility of the Safety Officer at an incident site?

    <p>Assess and mitigate hazardous and unsafe situations. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of the follow-up report after an initial radio report?

    <p>To inform about the results of the 360 walk-around. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what capacity can the Intelligence/Investigations Management function be established during an incident?

    <p>As an Officer in the Command Staff. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under which circumstance would the Fast Attack mode be most appropriately utilized?

    <p>During a situation requiring immediate action. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which position in the Command Staff is responsible for relaying incident updates to the media?

    <p>Public Information Officer (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is NOT a component of the follow-up report?

    <p>Emergency response time statistics. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under which condition should Branch Directors be utilized during an incident?

    <p>When Division/Group Supervisors reach the maximum span of control. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who typically evaluates and approves news releases from the Public Information Officer?

    <p>Incident Commander (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must occur before transferring command to another officer?

    <p>A Transfer of Command Briefing must be completed. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a function of the Liaison Officer at an incident?

    <p>Oversee all incident operations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes the Investigative mode of command?

    <p>Standing by while assessing the situation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main goal of the Branch level in the incident command structure?

    <p>To split the incident into more manageable components. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which command option allows for the officer to assign their crew to perform staff functions?

    <p>Command mode. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement about the transfer of command is incorrect?

    <p>It is automatic upon the arrival of a higher-ranking officer. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should Assistant Safety Officers be designated at an incident?

    <p>When the complexity and size of the incident warrant additional support. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which is a key responsibility of the Incident Commander during an emergency?

    <p>Establish a command structure and fulfill command functions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the acronym LCANS used for in command briefing?

    <p>Location and function of units on scene. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    For what purpose can Branch Directors communicate directly with the IC?

    <p>To report on Division/Group activities. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action should be taken if the situation is not stabilized during a Fast Attack?

    <p>Withdraw to a fixed command location. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During a follow-up report, what should not be included?

    <p>Plan for media relations. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During which scenario should radio communications be directed from Division/Group Supervisors to Branch Directors?

    <p>When Command structure has been officially implemented. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following accurately describes the role of the Unit OIC during a Fast Attack?

    <p>The Unit OIC is responsible for direct involvement and supervision. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which position must liaise face-to-face with representatives from cooperating agencies?

    <p>Liaison Officer (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which option represents a condition where a follow-up report is particularly critical?

    <p>During an incident with fire venting and safety hazards. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does an Incident Commander typically handle the establishment of command when the first arriving unit is a Battalion Chief?

    <p>Directly assume command and organize the functions of command. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should the Transfer of Command be considered beneficial?

    <p>In complex incidents requiring experienced oversight. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be ensured by the Safety Officer regarding the strategies employed during an incident?

    <p>They should align with Risk Management principles. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which scenario would the Investigative mode typically be chosen?

    <p>When the scene lacks immediate threats. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    NIMS Compliant ICS Overview

    • MDFR implements a National Incident Management System (NIMS) compliant Incident Command System (ICS) for resource management in emergencies and non-emergencies.
    • ICS assigns command responsibility to specified individuals, ensuring a clear chain of command and the establishment of direct command from the onset of an incident.

    Command Structure and Responsibilities

    • Command procedures initiate at incidents requiring three or more resources.
    • The Incident Commander (IC) must develop an organizational structure for effective incident management.
    • Command organization evolves to match the tactical deployment pace of resources.

    Incident Priorities

    • Priorities (in descending order):
      • Life Safety: Protect personnel and public, prioritize evacuation and medical treatment.
      • Incident Stabilization: Stabilize the incident while ensuring life safety.
      • Property Conservation: Protect property, infrastructure, and the environment during recovery.

    Risk Management Principles

    • Significant risk activities limited to scenarios where lives can be saved ("risk a lot to save a lot").
    • Inherent risks recognized for property protection; actions taken to minimize risks ("risk a little to save a little").
    • No acceptable risk if there’s no potential to save life or property ("risk nothing when nothing is to be gained").

    Strategies and Tactics

    • Strategies outline the general plan to achieve incident objectives: Offensive (saving lives/property) or Defensive (where lives/property are unsavable).
    • Tactics are the specific actions taken to accomplish incident objectives, categorized as offensive or defensive.

    Command Levels

    • Command includes three levels:
      • Strategic: Determines direction, goals, and overall strategy.
      • Tactical: Formulates tactics and manages resource deployment.
      • Task: Supervises activities of individual units.

    Functions of Command

    • Eight key functions performed by the IC to achieve priorities: establish command, assess the situation, control communications, formulate objectives, develop organization, coordinate activities, evaluate the action plan, and ensure command continuity.

    Unity of Command

    • Unity of Command principle dictates that each person in the ICS reports to one designated leader, reducing conflicting orders and improving accountability.

    Span of Control

    • Refers to the number of individuals a supervisor can effectively manage, typically ranging from three to seven; a ratio of one supervisor to five subordinates is ideal in complex operations.

    Communications Protocol

    • All units initially operate on duplex (repeater) mode, switching to simplex if duplex is ineffective; communication must be clear, concise, and confirm receipt.
    • The IC is tasked with maintaining open communication with FAO at all times.

    Emergency Radio Communications

    • Emergency communications take precedence, and units maintain discipline during non-emergency transmissions.
    • Special calls like MAYDAY (life-threatening situations) and URGENT (injury prevention) highlight the need for immediate attention and acknowledgment.

    General Accountability

    • All resources must report to staging, ensuring that personnel are assigned to one supervisor, who can adequately manage subordinates and resources.

    Initial Operations

    • The first arriving MDFR resource with a radio establishes command at the scene of multi-unit responses.
    • Size-up is a systematic assessment for strategizing a response based on the incident details.

    Building Description and Initial Radio Report

    • Standard terminology (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta) is used to describe building sides and exposures.
    • Initial radio reports must include information about unit designation, scene description, problem assessment, resources needed, and strategy planned, with clear identification protocols in place.

    Follow-Up Reports

    • Follow-up reports occur post-size-up to provide updates after the first unit completes a comprehensive assessment of the scene.### Follow-Up Reports
    • Essential before committing units to a task.
    • May include results from a 360 walk-around, signal code changes, immediate actions, resource assignments, and safety concerns.

    Command Options

    • Investigative Mode: Used when the initial IC lacks information, often in “nothing showing” scenarios.
    • Fast Attack Mode: Requires immediate action and direct involvement of the Unit OIC; designed for aggressive firefighting, critical rescues, and complex incidents; ends with stabilized situations or transfer of command.
    • Command Mode: Necessary for larger incidents; allows the officer to assign crew members and support functions while maintaining direct command.

    Transfer of Command

    • Occurs to enhance command quality; first arriving Battalion Chief takes command after a briefing.
    • Higher-ranking officers may assist or assume command based on incident complexity.
    • Command transfer requires a Tactical Worksheet or ICS 201 form for documentation.

    Tactical Communication

    • Progress Reports (CAN): Report conditions, actions, and needs; concise updates ensure efficient communication.
    • Incident Times: Announced to assess plan effectiveness, communicated every 10 minutes initially, then every 15 minutes until control is established.
    • Rehab Unit (Rehab): Responsible for monitoring and supporting firefighter recovery; ensures medical care and rehabilitation after intense operations.

    Staging Procedures

    • Levels of Staging:
      • Level 1: Units stage a block away, uncommitted.
      • Level 2: Formal staging area for greater alarms, away from active scenes for safety.
    • Staging Area Manager: Responsible for overseeing incoming units, maintaining visibility, and ensuring accountability.

    Tactical Reserve

    • A pool of unassigned resources ready for deployment; size determined by the incident type and stage.
    • Used at IC’s discretion for relief or new assignments.

    Personnel Accountability

    • All resources must report to staging; freelancing not permitted.
    • Utilize the Passport Accountability System® for tracking personnel during incidents.
    • Conduct Personnel Accountability Reports (PAR) during critical events and changes in operations.

    Divisions and Groups

    • Structure established for complex incidents to improve management and reduce span of control.
    • Units organized into Divisions/Groups to enhance efficiency and oversight.### Incident Command Structure
    • Communication primarily occurs between the Incident Commander (IC) and Division/Group Supervisors, minimizing direct interactions with individual unit officers.
    • Establishing Divisions/Groups early enhances organization, allowing for effective tactical-level management as operations expand.
    • The IC sets strategic goals and assigns tactical objectives and resources to Divisions/Groups.

    Divisions/Groups Responsibilities

    • Division/Group Supervisors are responsible for tactical resource deployment to achieve objectives set by the IC.
    • Communication of resource needs and progress should go through Command; unneeded resources should be returned to Staging.
    • Reducing radio communication is a key benefit of having Divisions/Groups; face-to-face communication among unit officers is preferred.

    Safety Protocols

    • The establishment of Divisions/Groups is crucial for the safety of personnel, with Supervisors monitoring risks and ensuring safe operations.
    • Continuous communication with assigned resources allows Supervisors to control position and function and mitigate hazards.

    Assigning Divisions/Groups

    • Command must assign Divisions/Groups when resource management becomes challenging or when complex operations are involved.
    • The IC assigns tactical objectives, radio designations, resources, and reporting structure to each Division/Group Supervisor.

    Span of Control

    • Span of control for Division/Group Supervisors should be three to seven, with five being optimal.
    • Supervisors must be able to effectively manage their assigned resources; actions must be taken if they are unable to control operations.

    Division/Group Designations

    • Designations for exterior divisions are based on building sides (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta); interior divisions are indicated by floor numbers.
    • Groups are designated by specific functions (e.g., Ventilation Group, Safety Group).

    Supervisor Responsibilities

    • Supervisors must oversee all assigned functions, monitor progress, coordinate actions, and provide frequent progress reports to Command.
    • They must remain visible, equipped with protective gear, and maintain accountability through tools like the Passport Accountability Board.

    Communication Protocols

    • The first officer establishing a Division/Group must report progress to Command as per the CAN acronym.
    • Assignments to Divisions/Groups must include reporting instructions, and progress reports should be face-to-face whenever possible.

    Expanding Operations

    • As incidents evolve from minor to major, organizational support from higher-ranking officers is necessary for effective incident management.
    • Section Chiefs assist the IC with strategic management, and Operation, Logistics, Planning, and Finance/Administration are part of the General Staff.

    Roles of Section Chiefs

    • Operations Section Chief focuses on tactical activities and personnel safety; they communicate objectives to Division/Group Supervisors.
    • Planning Section Chief manages information and plans ahead for resource needs; evaluates objectives and incident status.

    Logistics Support

    • The Logistics Section supports all incident components by managing supplies, providing services, and ensuring communication systems are in place.
    • A Base is established when multiple support activities are present, and a Base Manager oversees operations at this location.

    Finance/Administration

    • This section evaluates financial requirements, documents costs for potential recovery, and manages legal risks associated with incidents.

    Intelligence/Investigations Management Function

    • The IIM component may be formed to handle incident-related intelligence and investigations as needed, integrating it into the existing command framework.

    Command Staff Functions

    • Command Staff includes Safety Officer, Liaison Officer, and Public Information Officer, each with distinct roles that aid incident management without being part of the line organization.
    • The Safety Officer assesses risks and ensures compliance with safety protocols, while the Liaison Officer acts as the point of contact for external agencies.
    • The Public Information Officer provides updates to the media and public about the incident.

    Branch Implementation

    • As incidents grow more complex, Branches may be established to improve coordination among Division/Groups and the IC, leading to effective management of diverse incident components.

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    Description

    This quiz covers the overview of the Incident Command System (ICS) as utilized by MDFR for managing personnel and resources during emergency incidents. Key aspects include establishing command responsibility and ensuring effective communication and structure from the beginning of an incident.

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