What are the 4 main principles of command?
1: Command is established - who assumes command?
2: Command is scalable and situational - used to respond to incidents and operations ranging in size and scope
3: Delegation of command - centralisation of command but decentralised execution
4: Freedom of action - the extent to which a Commander can carry out tasks in their field of operation
Explain the establishment of command?
Command is initially via the ECC, but must quickly be established in the field.
Generally, the most senior officer (either in rank or service) has the responsibility to assume command. But this isn’t always the case, it should be the most suitable or qualified member.
Explain freedom of action?
Commanders must be permitted maximum freedom to take the initiative and exercise their skills and knowledge in the planning and conduct of the operation.
FoA gives Commanders the confidence to apply their judgement in unanticipated and urgent situations.
Commanders are obliged to follow any orders and direction given, but exercising “disciplined initiative” allows Commanders the ability to assess the situation and make decisions that create opportunities to achieve the overall outcome sought.
The extent of a Commander’s freedom to act is determined by any limitations set, constraints imposed, or risk posed to responders and the community
What are the 4 characteristics of command and control?
1: Unity of command and control
2: Span of command and control
3: Continuity of command and control
4: Obligations of command
Explain unity of command and control?
There can only be one command and control structure at any one time.
The Controller/Commander is responsible for the successful outcome of the operation and has the authority to control all Police and other agency resources committed to the operation.
Explan span of command and control?
There is a limit to the number of people a Commander can effectively command or manage. The span of command and control must be flexible, however should be limited so the Commander does not become overloaded.
The recommended span of control is between two to seven direct reports.
Explain continuity of command and control?
All command and control must be sustainable. There must be mechanisms in place whereby the Controller or Commander can delegate particular tasks and have identified officers as replacements if required.
Explain obligations of command?
A Commander has responsibility for community safety, the health and wellbeing of staff and the reputation of NZP.
Commanders must always ensure that they behave lawfully, ethically and professionally and in line with Our Values.
Commanders are accountable for decisions made and their consequences.
Explain the difference between command vs control?
Command applies vertically to one agency.
Control applies horizontally across agencies.
A Controller can only command staff within their agency, and although they cannot command staff in other agencies, the control the response.
What are the three levels of command?
Tactical
Operational
Strategic
Explain tactical command?
This is when Police resources are applied directly within the community.
Functions include:
- Cordons
- Command of immediate situations and responses
- Comman of all Police resources in attendance
- Manage interagency cooperation
Explain operational command?
This level exists when multiple tactical level activities occur or when the complexity of the situation requires a higher level of command
Functions include:
- Command of overall incident or incidents
- Taskings of specialists groups
- Command of resource distribution to roles
- Managing consequences of ongoing responses or event development
- Interagency coordination at operational level
Explain strategic command?
The strategic level is required when the scope, consequence, community or political implications of an event require management.
Functions include:
- Command of overall incident or incidents
- Command multiple operational activities
- Command community engagement
- Command consequence management
- Liaison with Executive, government and media
What is AFCO (Police appreciation process?)
Aims
Factors
Courses of aciton
Outline plan
