What 3 Command options/modes are described for the initial (often Captain) IC?
Investigative Mode (Nothing Showing); Fast Attack; Stationary Command Post (Command Mode).
Investigative Mode: What does the Company Officer do?
Goes with the company to investigate while commanding with a portable radio.
Fast Attack: When is it used (general)?
Visible working fires (houses/small commercial) or other situations where the Captain’s direct participation will positively impact outcome (search/rescue, fire control, crew safety).
Fast Attack: What should IC #1 do regarding the incoming attack team and staging?
Give an initial radio report and quickly assign an attack team (2 engines + a ladder) coming in behind; next arriving units stage.
Fast Attack: How long should the Fast-attack-mobile Command mode last?
Only a few minutes.
Fast Attack ends with what 3 outcomes (SOP 201.01)?
1) Situation stabilized, OR 2) Command transferred, OR 3) IC moves to an exterior stationary Command position.
Fast Attack safety rule about radios (SOP 201.01)?
No crew will remain in a hazardous area without radio communications.
Stationary Command Post: When should it be used early?
When incident size/complexity/potential for rapid expansion demands early, strong, stationary command from the outset.
Stationary Command Post: Where does the IC stay?
Out of the hazard zone, in a stationary exterior command position, until termination or transfer.
Stationary Command Post: What tool must be initiated/used?
The tactical worksheet.
If a Company Officer assumes a Command mode, what 3 options exist for the remaining crew?
1) Move up an acting officer within the company. 2) Assign crew to staff functions (recon/reporting, comms assist, worksheet tracking). 3) Assign personnel to another company (acknowledged by both officers and included in accountability).
Does the arrival of a ranking Officer automatically transfer Command?
No. Command transfers only when the Transfer of Command process is completed.
Can Command be transferred to an officer who is not on the scene?
No. ‘Passing Command’ to an off-scene unit creates a gap; Command shall not be transferred to an officer not on scene.
Preferred method to transfer Command?
Face-to-face.
In what situation may it be advantageous for a Company Officer IC to transfer Command to the next company ON SCENE?
When the first arriving company’s initial commitment requires a full crew (e.g., high-rise or immediate rescue) and another company/command officer is on scene.
If a later arriving company/command officer cannot locate or communicate with Command after several radio attempts, what happens?
They assume and announce Command and take actions necessary to confirm safety of the missing crew.
Transfer of Command: What 5 items must the relieved IC brief to the incoming IC (minimum)?
Incident conditions; Incident management plan/progress on Tactical Objectives; Safety considerations; Deployment/assignments; Need for additional resources.
