Test Your Knowledge of Incident Command System and Emergency Response Procedures

Incident Command System and Procedures for Emergency Response

• Rio Rancho Fire Rescue operates within the Incident Command System (ICS) for effective emergency management.
• The ICS establishes Standard Operating Guidelines for Command and all components.
• Command is fixed on a certain individual through a standard identification system.
• A strong, direct, and visible Command is established from the onset of the incident.
• The incident commander is responsible for the completion of tactical objectives, which prioritize the removal of endangered occupants and treatment of the injured, stabilization of the incident and life safety, conservation of property, and safety, accountability, and welfare of personnel.
• The ICS facilitates the completion of tactical objectives with the incident commander driving the Command system towards that end.
• The functions of Command include assuming and announcing Command, evaluating the situation, initiating, maintaining, and controlling the communications process, identifying overall strategy, developing incident management plans, developing an effective Incident Command organization, and providing for continuity, transfer, and termination of Command.
• The first fire department member or unit to arrive at the scene of a multiple unit response assumes Command of the incident.
• The initial incident commander remains in Command until Command is transferred or the incident is stabilized and terminated.
• Radio reports include unit designation, rank/position and badge number of individuals, brief description of incident situation, obvious conditions, description of action taken, declaration of strategy, any obvious safety concerns, assumption and identification of Command, and announcement of accountability location.
• The radio designation "Command" is used along with the geographical location of the incident and remains with the officer currently in Command throughout the event.
• The first arriving unit or member to assume Command presents several options depending on the situation.