10. Command & Control, Emergency Management

Question 1

What is the definition of “Command and Control” according to the New Zealand Police Sergeant Syllabus?

Answer 1

Leadership, coordination, effective decision-making, and ethical behaviour with a prevention and victim focus when managing a response to an incident.

Question 2

What is fundamental to policing in New Zealand, as stated in the “Overview” section?

Answer 2

The ability to effectively control, command, lead and coordinate Police-led operations.

Question 3

In all events where Police deploy, what element is required?

Answer 3

An element of command and control.

Question 4

What is the scope of command and control application within the Police?

Answer 4

It is not just applied by specialist teams or specific ranks but encompasses all Police functions and operations , exercised by a single crewed constable through to a Commander of a specialist group or officer senior in rank. All Police personnel are expected to exercise command and control where required.

Question 5

Who has the primary responsibility to ensure risk is managed when responding to an incident?

Answer 5

The Incident Controller/Commander

Question 6

What threat assessment model do Police use to help assess risk in a dynamic environment?

Answer 6

TENR

Question 7

What is the core function of the TENR model?

Answer 7

It is a decision-making process that supports the timely and accurate assessment of information relevant to the safety of us Police and others.
- To balance the maintenance of safety with effective execution of their duties.

Question 8

What is the purpose of the principles of command?

Answer 8

To provide a foundation from which our Commanders can perform their duties, be agile in response and have the freedom to respond to circumstances as they evolve.

Question 9

In most cases, how is command initially established in the field?

Answer 9

Via the ECD, but command must be quickly established “in the field” to ensure responder deployment is coordinated, and may then transfer from the ECD to the commander in the field.

Question 10

What is the core idea behind the principle of “Delegation of command”?

Answer 10

Centralisation of command but decentralised execution

Question 11

What does “Freedom of Action” provide commanders and subordinates with?

Answer 11

It gives them confidence to apply their judgement, take initiative and exercise skill and knowledge.

Question 12

What is the fundamental principle of “Unity of command and control”?

Answer 12

There can be only one command or control structure at any one time.

Question 13

What is the recommended span of control for a Commander?

Answer 13

Between two to seven direct reports, depending on the complexity of the incident or operation.

Question 14

What does “Continuity of command and control” ensure?

Answer 14

That all command and control must be sustainable and transferrable.

Question 15

What are the key elements to consider during the planning phase for continuity of command?

Answer 15

Alternative headquarters, contingency plans and a reserve capability.

Question 16

What are the “Obligations of command” for a Commander?

Answer 16

• Responsibility for community safety, the health and wellbeing of staff and the reputation of the New Zealand Police.
• Ensuring lawful, ethical, and professional behaviour and in line with Our Values.

-Being accountable for ALL decisions made and their consequences.

Question 17

What is the distinction between “Command” and “Control” in multi-agency responses?

Answer 17

‘Command’ operates vertically within an organisation , describing the internal ownership, responsibility, and direction of an agency’s personnel and resources.

‘Control’ refers to the responsibility for coordinating and directing the response to an incident and includes the authority to assign tasks to another agency and to coordinate that agency’s wider actions so that it integrates with the wider response.

Question 18

What does “Coordination” involve in the context of command and control?

Answer 18

It occurs when command and control is communicated to all response agencies.

Question 19

What are the three levels of command?

Answer 19

Tactical, Operational, and Strategic.

Question 20

Describe the “Tactical command” level.

Answer 20

When Police resources are applied directly within the community, from answering calls for service or when a single Police officer is deployed.

It is also exercised by Commanders of specialist groups such as AOS or SAR, when specialist tasks are carried out by groups supporting a wider Police operation.

Question 21

What are some functions of Tactical Command?

Answer 21

Cordons, Command of immediate situations and responses, Command of all Police resources in attendance, and Manage interagency cooperation.

Question 22

Describe the “Operational command” level and its functions.

Answer 22

This level exists when multiple tactical activities occuring simulataneously or when the complexity of the situation requires a higher level of command.

Functions include:

Command of overall incident or incidents.
Taskings of specialist groups (e.g. AOS). Command of resource distribution to roles, Managing consequences of ongoing responses or event development. Interagency coordination at operational level.

Question 23

Describe the “Strategic command” level and its functions.

Answer 23

This level is required when the scope, consequence, community or political implications of an event require management.

Question 24

What is “Steady state policing”?

Answer 24

It describes the activities that Police respond to and manage as part of the everyday responsibilities.

Question 25

What are "Rising tide incidents"?

Answer 25

Incidents that develop from a steady state to become a major incident over a more prolonged period of time (e.g., severe weather events such as widespread flooding). Managing them requires careful consideration to ensure the nature of the incident is properly understood and that a proportionate response is applied.

Question 26

What are "Spontaneous incidents"?

Answer 26

Incidents that have no warning to develop a response or contingency plans. They require an initial response, even though we have incomplete information. As a result, the initial response may be directed towards increasing the level of intelligence or understanding of what has occurred.

Question 27

What are "Pre-planned operations"?

Answer 27

Situations when Police have the opportunity and time to develop a plan and tactics before an operation is undertaken. The amount of time of advanced notice will vary due to the size and nature of the event , from several hours for a search warrant to several months or years for a major international sporting event.

Question 28

What is the key distinction between Pre-planned and Spontaneous responses?

Answer 28

Time

Question 29

What system do Police use as the model to support operational command and coordinate efforts of different agencies?

Answer 29

The Coordinated Incident Management System (CIMS).

Question 30

What is the purpose of the "Appreciation process" AFCO, used by Police?

Answer 30

To identify the factors that can impact on response, identify courses of action available and make decisions that assist in developing sound plans.

Question 31

What are the four steps of the "AFCO appreciation model"?

Answer 31

Aim, Factors, Courses of Action, Outline Plan.

Question 32

What is "Commander's intent"?

Answer 32

A clear, concise directive, verbal or written, that outlines the basic purpose of the operation. It describes the higher-level Commander's desired end-state and assists in ensuring planning is focused on what must be accomplished.

Question 33

What should the Commander's Intent contain?

Answer 33

The timeline for planning, any higher-level Commander's guidance, the lower-level Commander's mission, purpose and key tasks, an updated Commander's Critical Information Requirements (CCIR) list, any priorities determined by the Commander , and the Commander's desired end state.

Question 34

How are "Factors" considered in the AFCO model?

Answer 34

Each factor is to be considered for its potential impact and how it can be mitigated. Factors are listed and considered by asking "So what?" to focus on the potential impact , and then "Therefore?" which helps to identify the mitigation.

Question 35

What is a "Community Impact Assessment (CIA)"?

Answer 35

A risk assessment which looks to identify considerations that should be considered during an immediate response or a planned operation to minimise harm, increase safety for our community and maintain trust and confidence in Police. CIA enables an assessment of the impact of the event, the anticipated Police response and the likely impact or reaction of the community. It also helps to assess the impact on various groups within the community and identify those actions that can be taken to mitigate the impact of Police operational activity on them.

Question 36

What is an "Operation Order" in the New Zealand Police context?

Answer 36

The format for a Controller or Commander to record a plan to convey to staff the desired outcome of the operation and how the operation is to be conducted. It is also a directive on how set tasks are to be carried out.

Question 37

What are the key principles for Operation Orders?

Answer 37

When possible, Operation Orders should be recorded in writing. They should be clear and simple, as accurate as possible and capable of being executed. The Operation Orders must also be given to staff in sufficient time so that they may be acted on.

Question 38

What is the GSMEAC format for Operation Orders?

Answer 38

Ground, Situation, Mission, Execution, Administration and Logistics, and Command and Signals.

Question 39

What is included in the "Ground" section of a GSMEAC Operation Order?

Answer 39

The necessary terrain and makeup of the area to be policed, any risks or hazards and potential changes over time to the ground. Any relevant distances will be highlighted along with any factors such as day or night changes.

Question 40

What is included in the "Situation" section of a GSMEAC Operation Order?

Answer 40

A general outline (summary and background as to the matter to be policed), assumptions made by the Controller/Commander and planners, an outline of the group to be policed and the "threat", and an overview of the total Police resources available for deployment (Own Forces).

Question 41

What is included in the "Mission" section of a GSMEAC Operation Order?

Answer 41

A very clear and concise statement as to the Police role, generally the same as the aim from the appreciation, expressed as one sentence and always starting with "To...".

Question 42

What is included in the "Execution" section of a GSMEAC Operation Order?

Answer 42

How the mission will be achieved, including a general overview of the operation, specific Group details (O/C, 2 I/C, staff, location, key tasks, routes, boundaries, timings, limitations, fire orders, briefings, arrests, media/public communications, liaison with other agencies, legal and evidence gathering), and Coordinating Instructions (timings for execution).

Question 43

What is included in the "Administration & Logistics" section of a GSMEAC Operation Order?

Answer 43

How the support functions will be carried out, addressing matters such as: equipment, meals, accommodation, dress/clothing, transport, resources deployed, health and safety, medical, welfare, complaints, prisoners, and finance.

Question 44

What is included in the "Command & Signals" section of a GSMEAC Operation Order?

Answer 44

The various control and command elements and how staff will communicate with each other and headquarters, including the Controller/Commander and 2 I/C names, location of each headquarters, contact numbers of each key Controller/Commander or Group O/C, various call signs, radio channels, phone numbers and code-words.

Question 45

Who typically attends an "Orders Group" briefing?

Answer 45

In some cases, all operational staff may attend, while in larger operations with large numbers of staff, only key Group or Phase Commanders may attend. In any case, it is essential that the Controller/Commander has all Group or Phase Commanders present.

Question 46

What is the aim of a debriefing after an event or incident?

Answer 46

For staff to communicate and share their experiences so that lessons can be identified, and to reflect on the activity and identify learning points and propose improvements in a constructive and "no-blame" environment.

Question 47

What is a debriefing not intended to do?

Answer 47

To judge success or failure or assign blame.

Question 48

What is the primary focus of a debrief?

Answer 48

Policy, practice and procedures, to determine how to constantly improve operational effectiveness. It must also attempt to identify what went well, so that good performance or practises can be repeated and sustained.

Question 49

What does the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002 define as an "emergency"?

Answer 49

A situation that (a) is the result of any happening, whether natural or otherwise , and (b) causes or may cause loss of life or injury or illness or distress or in any way endangers the safety of the public or property in New Zealand or any part of New Zealand , and (c) cannot be dealt with by emergency services, or otherwise requires a significant and co-ordinated response under this Act.

Question 50

Under Section 86 of the CDEM Act 2002, when can a Controller or constable direct the evacuation of premises or exclusion of persons/vehicles?

Answer 50

Hint: 3 Things If a state of emergency is in force and in the opinion of a Controller or any constable, the action authorised by this section is necessary for the preservation of human life, that person or a person authorised by him or her may direct the evacuation of any premises or place, including any public place , or the exclusion of persons or vehicles from any premises or place, including any public place.

Question 51

What powers does Section 87 of the CDEM Act 2002 grant regarding entry on premises?

Answer 51

If a state of emergency is in force in any area, a Controller or a constable, or any person acting under the authority of a Controller or constable, may enter on, and if necessary, break into, any premises or place within the area or district in respect of which the state of emergency is in force if he or she believes on reasonable grounds that the action is necessary for saving life, preventing injury, or rescuing and removing injured or endangered persons ; or permitting or facilitating the carrying out of any urgent measure for the relief of suffering or distress.

Question 52

What power does Section 88 of the CDEM Act 2002 allow a Controller or constable to exercise?

Answer 52

Remove from any place within the area or district in respect of which the state of emergency is in force, any aircraft, hovercraft, ship or ferry or other vessel, train, or vehicle impeding civil defence emergency management ; and if reasonably necessary for that purpose, use force or break into the aircraft, hovercraft, ship or ferry or other vessel, train, or vehicle[cite: 177].

Question 53

What specific types of property can be requisitioned under Section 90 of the CDEM Act 2002?

Answer 53

Any land, building, vehicle, animal, boat, apparatus, implement, earth-moving equipment, construction materials or equipment, furniture, bedding, food, medicines, medical supplies, or any other equipment, materials, or supplies.

Question 54

What must a person exercising requisitioning power provide to the owner?

Answer 54

A written statement specifying the property that is requisitioned and the person under whose control the property is to be placed.

Question 55

What general directions can a Controller or constable give under Section 91(1) of the CDEM Act 2002?

Answer 55

Direct any person to stop any activity that may cause or substantially contribute to an emergency ; or request any person, either verbally or in writing, to take any action to prevent or limit the extent of the emergency.

Question 56

What must a person exercising emergency powers provide under Section 93 of the CDEM Act 2002?

Answer 56

They must have with them, and produce if requested to do so, evidence of their identity ; and if requested to do so, produce evidence of or give a general explanation of the authority under which they are acting and the power or powers they are exercising.

Question 57

What is an offence under Section 95 of the CDEM Act 2002?

Answer 57

A person commits an offence who intentionally fails to comply with a requirement in a civil defence emergency management plan.

Question 58

What constitutes "Obstruction" as an offence under Section 98 of the CDEM Act 2002?

Answer 58

A person commits an offence who, during a state of emergency or transition period, threatens, assaults, or intentionally obstructs or hinders any person in that person's exercise or performance of a function, power, or duty under this Act.

Question 59

What is the maximum penalty for an individual who commits an offence against the CDEM Act 2002?

Answer 59

Imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months or to a fine not exceeding $5,000, or both.

Question 60

What is the maximum penalty for a body corporate that commits an offence against the CDEM Act 2002?

Answer 60

A fine not exceeding $50,000.

Question 61

What is the purpose of the Radio and Emergency Communication Centre protocols?

Answer 61

To provide a framework for operating the Police radio network with concise, professional communication between the field and Emergency Communications Centre (ECC) staff.

Question 62

What are the key principles of the ECC protocols?

Answer 62

To reduce unnecessary radio traffic , maintain staff and public safety , reduce dispatcher workload and fatigue , use consistent language for clear communication , and maintain professionalism.

Question 63

Who has initial command responsibility for all incidents reported to the ECC?

Answer 63

The Emergency Communications Centre shift commander.

Question 64

What role does the ECC fulfil during the early stages of an incident?

Answer 64

The ECC must fulfil the role of incident controller during the period from first notification to the ECC until the role of incident controller is formally passed to a suitable field supervisor.

Question 65

When incident control remains with the ECC, what role should be passed to a suitable field supervisor?

Answer 65

The role of forward commander.

Question 66

What is the definition of a "Forward Commander" (non-CIMS/Police term)?

Answer 66

A person in charge of a specific task or group and includes: The senior/most qualified person present as the initial response begins, i.e. the senior public safety team member that will take charge initially to neutralise any threats and contain the incident ; or an officer in charge of an element, such as AOS, cordons, arrest team, etc.. They differ from an Incident Controller in that they are task specific and may not necessarily have an overall incident awareness, nor control any other elements deployed.

Question 67

What are some immediate actions for a Forward Commander?

Answer 67

Assume command at the scene; ascertain current situation/consider relevant information; identify hazards and risks - take action to mitigate risk and ensure safety; provide situation reports to Emergency Communications Centre/other staff as required; carry out Appreciation and develop immediate response plan; Contingency/Immediate Action planning ("What if"); brief all staff and direct activities/confirm staff roles and responsibilities; and record decisions made.

Question 68

What are some considerations for a Forward Commander?

Answer 68

Consider Welfare of staff continually assess situation (update appreciation); impacts on community of Police responses; prepare briefings of arriving staff and subsequent phases; facilities required to manage event (Staging Areas or Incident Control Point); maintain ongoing communications with Emergency Communications Centre and staff deployed; establishment and maintain effective liaison with other agencies; "hot debrief" with attending staff and identify and record any lessons learnt.

Question 69

What matters must be considered prior to the transfer of command or control from the ECC to field units?

Answer 69

In the early stages of an incident the ECC is usually best equipped to control the response ; the highest-ranking person is not necessarily the most appropriate to assume control ; and the designated forward commander / incident controller should not be delegated control until they have had the opportunity to: establish an incident control point ; familiarise themselves with the incident itself and obtain a briefing ; and formulate a response plan.

Question 70

What is the first stage in the procedure for transferring command from the ECC to field units?

Answer 70

Where circumstances dictate, establish a Safe Forward Point (SFP).

Question 71

What are the key elements discussed between the ECC and the "Forward Commander Designate" prior to command transfer?

Answer 71

Current situation/situational awareness of both ECC and Forward Commander/Incident Controller Designate; resources currently deployed and actions carried out; TENR/Risk; tactics to be adopted; and the "Forward Commander/Incident Controller Designates'" ability and willingness to assume command.

Question 71

When can the ECC shift commander revoke the appointment of an incident controller?

Answer 71

If the shift commander determines that the person appointed incident controller is no longer the most appropriate person to fulfil the role, the shift commander may exercise the delegated authority of the district commanders to revoke the appointment.

Question 72

Why is "Radio discipline" important during a major incident?

Answer 72

These matters are important in maintaining clear communication and promoting effective tactical decision making.

Question 73

What specific actions should units take to maintain radio discipline during the initial stages of an incident?

Answer 73

Units not specifically assigned to the incident should listen to radio traffic and maintain an awareness of the situation ; units should write down information provided by the dispatcher to avoid the need for repeats ; during the initial stages of an incident radio traffic should be restricted to those units involved , and non-involved units should monitor the radio traffic but avoid making non urgent requests for information from the dispatcher or calling to notify their location and availability ; and when given a tasking, units should immediately comply with the directions.

Question 74

What is the "six steps" process in ECC for event information?

Answer 74

It is a process that ECC communicators use to put event information into a usable format. This process presents information to the dispatcher in a standard sequence and ensures that the most important information is presented first and that key details are not forgotten.

Question 75

What is the order of information in the "six steps" process, after event location and type are determined?

Answer 75

Headline including weapons. Time delay. Direction of travel. Mode of travel. Description of offender / vehicles. Additional relevant information (hazards, weapons, etc).