1
Q
What is the primary goal of Command Function 2?
A
To quickly establish and confirm a single IC and place that IC in the most effective command position as long as the Hot Zone exists
This function outlines a standard process for establishing Command and upgrading it when necessary.
2
Q
Who must establish Command on incidents involving three or more units?
A
The first-arriving unit
This applies to all incidents on the initial dispatch.
3
Q
What is a Brief Initial Report (BIR)?
A
A report transmitted by the first-arriving unit to establish Command
It includes essential information about the incident.
4
Q
What are the Eight Critical Factors assessed by the initial IC?
A
- Risk Management Plan (RMP)
- Incident action plan (IAP)
- Strategy
- Resource determination
- Safety concerns
- Building/Area description
- Problem description
- Clear Alarm
These factors guide the initial assessment and planning for the incident.
5
Q
What does the follow-up report include?
A
- Result of 360°
- Immediate safety concerns
- Confirm or announce the strategy
- Changes to the IAP
- Identify the Alpha side
- Resource determination
This report provides updated information critical for ongoing incident management.
6
Q
True or false: The initial IC can transfer Command to any officer not physically located on the incident scene.
A
FALSE
Transferring Command to an officer not on scene creates a gap in the command process.
7
Q
What are the two command positions the initial IC can choose from?
A
- Mobile command position
- Strategic Command Position
The choice depends on the situation and incident complexity.
8
Q
What are the advantages of a mobile command position?
A
- Enhances crew safety and accountability
- Provides critical factors for evaluation
- Usually solves the problem quickly
This position allows for direct supervision and quick action.
9
Q
What are the disadvantages of a mobile command position?
A
- Challenging communication
- Limited field of vision
- Reduces strategic span of control
These factors can hinder effective incident management.
10
Q
What is the role of the strategic IC?
A
To manage the incident from a stationary command post
This position allows for better control and communication.
11
Q
What should the command post (CP) provide for the IC?
A
- A good view of the scene
- A quiet place for decision-making
- Superior communication position
The CP should not interfere with apparatus movement.
12
Q
What is the purpose of forming a command team?
A
To manage complex incidents effectively
Command teams consist of command officers who fill strategic and tactical roles.
13
Q
What are the three operational phases of incident management?
A
- Initial Operations
- Expanding Operations
- Escalating Operations
These phases align with the IC’s position and command support.
14
Q
What is the initial IC responsible for during the initial operations phase?
A
Managing initial operations in a mobile command position
This includes assessing critical factors and implementing the incident action plan.
15
Q
What are the three phases of incident operations?
A
- Initial Operations
- Expanding Operations
- Escalating Operations
These phases align with the IC’s physical position, command support, incident organization, and safety systems.
16
Q
In Initial Operations, who typically manages the operations?
A
Initial IC in a mobile command position
The first-arriving officer establishes command and makes key assignments to support the IAP.
17
Q
What is a key advantage of the mobile command position?
A
Provides two views of overall incident conditions: outside and interior
This helps the IC assess the fire’s size, extent, and location.
18
Q
How long should Initial Operations last?
A
No longer than one bottle of air
This timeframe is crucial for effective management of structure fires.
19
Q
Why do we transfer Command during operations?
A
To improve firefighters’ safety by strategically placing an IC
This transfer is standard when crews operate in a Hot Zone.
20
Q
Who ultimately decides to assume Command in an incident?
A
The later-arriving battalion chief
The initial IC may achieve benchmarks before the battalion chief arrives.
21
Q
In Expanding Operations, how many companies should the initial IC assign?
A
Three to four companies
The initial IC can allocate resources but cannot manage ongoing details of a rapidly expanding incident.
22
Q
What is the primary reason for upgrading from Initial to Expanding Operations?
A
Placing the strategic IC in Command
Effective initial operations serve as the foundation for expanding operations.
23
Q
What is the primary goal of Command Function 2?
A
To quickly establish and confirm a single IC and to place that IC in the most effective command position as long as the Hot Zone exists.
24
Q
What does Command Function 2 outline as a standard process?
A
Establishing Command and placing the IC in the most effective command position based on a standard set of conditions.
25
What else does Command Function 2 outline?
When the IC must upgrade Command.
26
Establishing Command must be what kind of organizational event?
An automatic and regularly occurring organizational event.
27
When must the first-arriving unit establish Command?
On all incidents involving three (3) or more units on the initial dispatch.
28
Do one or two company responses that will not escalate require the first-arriving unit to formally assume Command?
No.
29
In one or two company responses that will not escalate, who remains responsible for necessary Command when needed?
The first-arriving unit or officer.
30
Name one example of a one- or two-company response that does not require formal Command.
Single unit welfare check response.
31
Name one example of a one- or two-company response that does not require formal Command.
Any EMS call requiring only two companies.
32
Name one example of a one- or two-company response that does not require formal Command.
Motor vehicle accidents.
33
Name one example of a one- or two-company response that does not require formal Command.
Outside fires.
34
Name one example of a one- or two-company response that does not require formal Command.
Car fires.
35
Name one example of a one- or two-company response that does not require formal Command.
Smoke investigations.
36
Who establishes Command on an incident involving three (3) or more units?
The first unit or member to arrive at the scene.
37
How does the first unit establish Command on an incident involving three (3) or more units?
By transmitting a Brief Initial Report (BIR).
38
When does Command confirmation occur?
When Dispatch uses the Order Model to repeat the BIR to all responding units.
39
What does Dispatch repeating the BIR confirm?
That the initially arriving unit is in Command of the incident.
40
How does the first-arriving unit or member establish Command beyond transmitting a BIR?
By assessing the Eight Critical Factors, determining the RMP, choosing a strategy, and formulating an IAP.
41
What does transmitting a BIR share with all incident responders?
The initial plan so they understand and can execute it.
42
When an incident begins with an initial IC in Command, how are later-arriving units assigned?
Based on the IC’s IAP.
43
What does assigning later-arriving units based on the IC’s IAP ensure?
All incident responders are on the same page.
44
Once a unit establishes Command, how will Dispatch and incident communication occur?
All communication between Dispatch and the incident will go through the IC.
45
How long shall the initial IC remain in Command?
Until transferring Command or the incident is stabilized and they terminate Command.
46
When must a formal IC be in place performing the Eight Command Functions?
Whenever a Hot Zone exists.
47
What is the most common reason for faulty incident beginnings and unsafe endings?
The absence of an effective IC.
48
Beginning and ongoing incident operations with what produce effective, coordinated action?
An in-place and in-charge IC.
49
What is the first reporting element the BIR should include?
Clear Alarm (ensures proper tactical channel).
50
What is the second reporting element the BIR should include?
Building/Area description.
51
What is the third reporting element the BIR should include?
Problem description.
52
What is the fourth reporting element the BIR should include?
Incident action plan.
53
What is the fifth reporting element the BIR should include?
Strategy declaration.
54
What is the sixth reporting element the BIR should include?
Resource determination.
55
What is the seventh reporting element the BIR should include?
Establish and name Command.
56
What must the follow-up report include about the 360°?
Result of 360° (possible basement).
57
What must the follow-up report include about safety?
Immediate safety concerns.
58
What must the follow-up report include about strategy?
Confirm or announce the strategy.
59
What must the follow-up report include about the IAP?
Any changes to the IAP.
60
What must the follow-up report include about Alpha side?
Identify the Alpha side (if not readily identifiable).
61
What must the follow-up report include about resources?
Resource determination (if not done in BIR).
62
How will the IC name Command (radio designation)?
Use the designation Command along with the main crossroad or specific occupancy name.
63
Give an example of the naming convention for Command.
Main Street Command.
64
Give another example of the naming convention for Command.
Siena Hospital Command.
65
How long does the IC retain the Command radio designation?
Throughout the incident.
66
How many operational levels function at the scene?
Three.
67
What are the three operational levels?
Strategic level, Tactical level, and Task level.
68
Who typically operates at the strategic level?
A captain or battalion chief in command of the incident.
69
Who typically operates at the tactical level?
A captain or BC supervising a Division.
70
Who operates at the task level?
A working captain with their crew addressing the problem.
71
For most incidents, what levels does the initial IC handle?
All three organizational levels.
72
How does the first arriving captain become the initial IC?
By assessing critical factors, declaring the incident strategy, and establishing Command.
73
Until Command is transferred or terminated, what is the initial IC responsible for on the strategic level?
The entire incident operation.
74
On the tactical level, what does the initial IC implement and execute?
An IAP that addresses critical factors and facilitates completion of Incident Benchmarks.
75
What position does the initial IC often occupy while conducting a fast attack?
A mobile command position.
76
In a mobile command position, what does the initial IC do with their crew?
Directly supervise and assist their crew members with tasks required to control the incident’s problems.
77
If crews fail to quickly control an incident and it escalates, what must occur?
The IC must upgrade the strategic operational level with command officers.
78
What is the first operational upgrade for incidents that escalate?
Upgrade to a strategic command.
79
What does command transfer to strategic command improve?
The IC’s position and ability to perform and manage the Eight Command Functions.
80
What does placing the IC in a stationary command post allow?
Exclusive focus on incident management, enhancing completion of Incident Benchmarks and ensuring task-level safety.
81
What two command positions can the initial IC place themselves in?
Mobile command position and Strategic command position.
82
What is included under mobile command position in the document?
Investigating – Reconnaissance and Fast-Attacking – Inside the Hot Zone.
83
How is the strategic command position described?
Stationary inside a Command Post (CP), outside the Hot Zone.
84
In the mobile command position, how does the initial IC operate?
Forward, in full PPE, with a portable radio, supervising and assisting their crew with control efforts.
85
What is described as a strength of the IMS regarding mobile command?
An initial IC in a mobile position directly supervises quick force at the beginning, then chiefs reinforce by establishing a stationary exterior command post.
86
What does the mobile command position provide?
The front-end command structure for quick force capability.
87
Name one advantage of a mobile command position.
Enhances crew safety and accountability.
88
Name one advantage of a mobile command position.
Gives the IC interior conditions to evaluate as critical factors.
89
Name one advantage of a mobile command position.
Usually solves the problem quickly.
90
Name one disadvantage of a mobile command position.
Combining suppression efforts and assigning units can be very challenging.
91
Name one disadvantage of a mobile command position.
Difficult communication position (full PPE in a Hot Zone).
92
Name one disadvantage of a mobile command position.
Limited field of vision.
93
Name one disadvantage of a mobile command position.
Reduces the strategic span of control.
94
How should later-arriving units view an initial IC in a mobile command position?
As being in a forward attack position, not a strategic command position.
95
What tradeoff is made with a mobile command position?
Position disadvantages are accepted because the initial front-end hit often resolves the incident’s problems.
96
When front-end efforts don’t stabilize the situation, what is the mobile IC’s position described as?
The worst position to continue Command.
97
The mobile command position should end in one of how many ways?
Three.
98
Mobile command end option 1?
Units quickly stabilize the situation.
99
Mobile command end option 2?
Initial IC transfers Command to a subsequent arriving battalion chief, the strategic IC.
100
If there is a delay in battalion chief arrival and crews can’t stabilize, what are the two options?
Move exterior and operate in strategic command position, or transfer Command to another arriving officer outside the Hot Zone.
101
If the initial IC moves exterior to strategic command, what is one crew option?
Assign crew member(s) to another Company in the Hot Zone with acknowledgement by both officers and accountability systems.
102
If the initial IC moves exterior to strategic command, what is a second crew option?
Have the crew exit with the IC and perform IC support roles.
103
If the initial IC moves exterior to strategic command, what is a third crew option?
Assign task-level duties outside the Hot Zone.
104
If transferring Command due to delay, to whom may the initial IC transfer?
Another arriving officer outside the Hot Zone.
105
Where is the strategic command position located?
Outside the Hot Zone and inside a vehicle (command post - CP).
106
What kinds of incidents require early, strong, sustained command from the outset?
Incidents due to size, complexity, or potential for rapid expansion (often more significant, defensive fires).
107
When the initial IC starts in strategic command, what must they use to manage accountability?
Initiate a tactical worksheet and utilize it.
108
If the captain assumes strategic command at the start, what is one option for crew members?
Assign company personnel to another company with acknowledgement by both officers and accountability system.
109
What caution is given about assigning additional personnel to a captain entering the Hot Zone?
It adds accountability challenges; the more complex the Hot Zone, the less desirable it becomes to add personnel.
110
If the captain assumes strategic command, what is a second option for crew members?
Perform staff functions to assist the IC (recon, reporting, communications assistance, tactical worksheet tracking).
111
If the captain assumes strategic command, what is a third option for crew members?
Assign task-level duties outside the Hot Zone.
112
What is prohibited regarding transferring Command?
The IC shall not transfer Command to any officer not physically located on the incident scene.
113
Why is transferring Command to a unit not on scene prohibited?
It creates a gap in the command process, compromising incident management and safety.
114
What does a stationary CP enable the strategic IC to do?
Initiate packaging of Command for ongoing operation and escalation.
115
What does physically locating the IC in the command position provide?
Strongest possible position to carry out the Eight Command Functions, accomplish benchmarks, and ensure safety.
116
Where should the CP be situated?
A location that affords a good view of the scene and surrounding area, ideally two sides (front and most critical side).
117
What should the CP not do?
Interfere with movement of apparatus.
118
If a later-arriving unit compromises the CP’s view, what should be done?
Relocate the CP when possible.
119
If relocating the CP is not possible, what should be considered?
Move to one of the apparatuses closest to the incident that gives a good view of the scene.
120
Why relocate to a closer apparatus if needed?
It keeps Command in a vehicle with radios and minimal distractions.
121
Before responding, en route, and initially upon arrival, what should battalion chiefs do?
Initiate filling out a tactical worksheet with the dispatched assignment or use Tablet Command; reference pre-plan info, access aerial views, and hydrant locations; listen critically to radio traffic.
122
If a battalion chief is the initial arriving unit to a structure fire, where will they operate?
In the command position.
123
Command Officers should only operate as what role?
A strategic IC.
124
Why is the follow-up report a critical component of the initial command sequence?
The BIR captures only a snapshot at initial arrival; as the officer becomes mobile, additional critical information is rapidly acquired.
125
In the follow-up sequence, what should the initial arriving officer do regarding occupants?
Locate an occupant and quickly verify all occupants are out or someone remains inside.
126
Why does occupant status significantly impact actions?
It significantly impacts the RMP and thus our actions.
127
What must captains prioritize regarding the 360°?
Achieving a 360° as a high priority.
128
What must be included in every follow-up report regarding the 360°?
Completion of the 360° or the inability to complete it.
129
If a 360° cannot be completed, what must the IC communicate in the follow-up report?
That it was not achieved, why, and what sides were not seen.
130
Give an example of how to report an incomplete 360° (per document).
360 not complete due to a locked gate, Charlie side not seen.
131
If the initial 360° is incomplete, what must the IC do next?
Prioritize acquiring a 360° by assigning another unit to the task.
132
Why does knowing why the initial 360° was incomplete help later-arriving units?
It helps them efficiently plan how to complete the 360° despite the obstacle.
133
Without a 360°, what must the initial crew recognize about their decisions?
They are making decisions with an incomplete and potentially inadequate risk assessment.
134
What does the entire command system revolve around?
Rapidly establishing a stationary, remote IC operating in a standard CP.
135
Why is a CP the ideal position for the IC?
It allows the strategic IC to maintain control and remain available to communicate, monitor, and assess crew needs.
136
Where will the first arriving battalion chief respond?
Directly to the scene.
137
If an active Hot Zone exists or benchmarks remain, what should the BC do?
Upgrade Command to a strategic command position.
138
Upon arrival, what must the strategic IC do?
Assume Command using the Command Transfer process.
139
How should Command transfers be conducted?
Concise.
140
What provides the BC necessary information for a smooth Command transfer?
A clear BIR, concise unit assignments, and a good follow-up report from the initial IC.
141
Name one element that places an effective IC in charge of the incident.
Strong, standard Command.
142
Name one element that places an effective IC in charge of the incident.
Divisions.
143
Name one element that places an effective IC in charge of the incident.
SOPs.
144
Name one element that places an effective IC in charge of the incident.
Clear orders and assignments.
145
Name one element that places an effective IC in charge of the incident.
Standard strategy and incident action planning.
146
Once in strategic command, what can the IC use to manage operations?
Standard components of the IMS.
147
What does this management come down to?
The IC’s ability to control firefighters’ locations and match their actions to current conditions.
148
Name one advantage of working in a stationary CP.
A stationary, remote, and quiet place to listen, analyze, and make decisions.
149
Name one advantage of working in a stationary CP.
A superior communication position (better radios, no PPE, quiet).
150
Name one advantage of working in a stationary CP.
More radio channels are available.
151
Name one advantage of working in a stationary CP.
A place to write and record.
152
Name one advantage of working in a stationary CP.
Protection from the elements.
153
Name one advantage of working in a stationary CP.
Better intel equipment (MCTs, reference materials).
154
Name one disadvantage of working in a stationary CP.
Apparatus or smoke may obstruct the view.
155
Name one disadvantage of working in a stationary CP.
Multiple radio channels in the vehicle.
156
Name one disadvantage of working in a stationary CP.
Not much room for more than two people to operate effectively.
157
Name one disadvantage of working in a stationary CP.
Distractions from personnel attempting to communicate face-to-face with Command.
158
When should the IC form a command team?
To manage complex incidents.
159
What positions may a command team include (per document)?
Strategic IC, Support Officer, Senior Advisor, and required sections.
160
What are command teams described as?
A quick and effective way to manage the swift influx of resources needed to control local incidents.
161
What are command teams composed of?
Command officers.
162
Do command officers handle task-level operations directly?
No.
163
Name one example of command officers listed.
Battalion chief and BC aide in the BC vehicle.
164
Name one example of command officers listed.
Engine and truck captains reappropriated for Command purposes.
165
Name one command officer role listed.
Strategic Incident Commander.
166
Name one command officer role listed.
Support Officer.
167
Name one command officer role listed.
Incident Safety Officer.
168
Name one command officer role listed.
Division Supervisors.
169
Name one command officer role listed.
Section Chiefs.
170
What does the IMS combine for managing multi-alarm incidents?
Command strategy and organizational procedures.
171
What places us in the best position to succeed before events occur?
Predefining roles and responsibilities and training to those policies, standards, and guidelines.
172
What are the three phases of incident operations?
Initial, expanding, and escalating.
173
What do these phases align with?
IC’s physical position, level of command support, incident organization, and safety systems used to manage operations.
174
Initial operations: what is the IC position?
Initial IC in a mobile command position.
175
Expanding operations: what roles are present?
Strategic IC and Support Officer.
176
Escalating operations: what roles are present?
Strategic IC, Support Officer, and Senior Advisor with required Section positions.
177
Initial operations shouldn’t last longer than what?
One bottle of air.
178
What advantage does a mobile command position provide regarding views?
Two views of conditions: outside and interior.
179
Once the IC gets their line in operation, what should they have a good idea of?
Fire size, extent, and location.
180
Why do we transfer Command (primary reason stated)?
To improve firefighters’ safety by strategically placing an IC to manage ongoing operations.
181
When should Command transfer be the standard?
Anytime crews operate in a Hot Zone.
182
If the initial operation doesn’t control or eliminate hazards, what must the initial IC do?
Transfer Command to a strategic IC.
183
Whose decision is it to assume Command when the battalion chief arrives?
Ultimately the later-arriving battalion chief’s decision.
184
If the initial IC achieves Primary All Clear and Fire Control before the BC arrives, what may the initial IC do?
Downgrade the response or cancel resources if appropriate.
185
How many companies should the initial IC be able to quickly and effectively assign?
Three to four companies.
186
Why can the initial IC not manage ongoing details of a rapidly expanding incident?
Because of their physical operating position and lack of strategic-level support, not competence.
187
What begins expanding operations?
Placing the strategic IC in Command of the incident.
188
What is the initial step of expanding operations?
Transfer Command from the initial IC to a strategic IC.
189
Effective initial operations serve as what for expanding operations?
The foundation.
Strategy and Tactics
flashcards
Decks in class (14)
# Cards
