TN 104.2.1- The Incident Commander

Study Notes

Incident Commander (IC) Overview

The Incident Commander (IC) is the Officer in charge of an emergency incident scene.

Incident Commander Responsibilities

Announce the establishment of Command via radio upon arrival, as per TN 104.3.7.
Operate at a strategic level to ensure overall command of the incident (except in fast attack mode).
Develop an Incident Action Plan (IAP) that anticipates needs and forecasts outcomes based on scene condition evaluations.
Determine the strategy to be employed at the incident (Offensive or Defensive).
Identify and deploy personnel to meet the three primary tactical objectives in order of priority:
- Rescue and life safety
- Stabilization of the emergency incident
- Conservation of property and the environment
Transfer command or expand the IMS when necessary to improve the quality of Command.
Be aware of RIT, Mayday, and emergency evacuation procedures.

Incident Commander - Strategic Functions

Institute or modify the IMS to:
- Ensure a rapid size-up of the incident is conducted.
- Identify the overall strategy, develop and implement an Incident Action Plan, and assign personnel as needed to meet tactical objectives.
- Establish an effective command structure.
- Initiate, maintain, and control the communications process relative to the complexity of the incident.
Ensure measures for firefighter safety are implemented (Entry Control, RIT, Relief and Rehab, Accountability, Safety Officer, etc.).
Implement strategies to meet tactical objectives.
Review, re-evaluate, and modify strategy or tactical objectives as the incident dictates.
Request and maintain adequate resources for incident needs.
Assign Officers to the role of Sector, Branch, Section, etc.
Provide direction, guidance, and resources to Sector Officers, Command Post Staff, and outside agencies.
Review, re-evaluate, and revise the Incident Action Plan (IAP) as the incident dictates.
Ensure implementation of radio procedures as per TN 104.3.1.
When Branch Officers are assigned, notify Sector Officers of their new supervisor and radio channel for communications.
Assign personnel to monitor Branch Officer radio channels if operating outside the Command Post.
Maintain a running log of all Command decisions.
Clear unrequired apparatus.
Ensure all written records and documentation are collected.

Description

This quiz assesses your knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of an Incident Commander (IC) in emergency response situations. It covers key tasks such as establishing command, operating at a strategic level, and developing an Incident Action Plan. Test your skills today!