Fire and Rescue Manual Volume 2 - Incident Command 3rd edition
Fire and Rescue Manual
Volume: 2
Title: Fire Service Operations Incident Command
Edition: 3rd Edition, 2008
Publisher: TSO (The Stationery Office)
Key Components
Command Structure
Incident Command System (ICS) is the framework for effective incident management.
Key roles include:
Incident Commander: In charge of overall management, decision making, and resource allocation.
Sector Commanders: Responsible for specific areas within the incident scene.
Support Sectors: Provide assistance in logistics, safety, water supply, and communication.
Incident Command Philosophy
Focus on three main aspects:
Organisation: Structuring tasks and resources efficiently on the incident ground.
Risk Management: Ensuring the safety of responders through thorough risk assessment and control measures.
Command Competence: Emphasizing the skills and knowledge required for effective decision making.
Chapter Summaries
Chapter 1 - Fire and Rescue Service Incident Command Doctrine
Incident Command System: Doctrine that facilitates safe and effective management of operational incidents.
Emphasizes the importance of leadership, operational environments, and the commander's role.
Chapter 2 - Organisation on the Incident Ground
General Structure: Outlines roles and duties of the Incident Commander, levels of command (Bronze, Silver, Gold), and organisational hierarchy in emergencies.
Effective Briefing and Communication: Communication strategies and procedures that ensure clarity and safety.
Chapter 3 - Command within the UK Resilience Framework
Multi-Agency Response: Overview of roles and coordination during emergencies with emphasis on the importance of collaboration between agencies.
Strategic and Tactical Responses: Different levels of command (Gold, Silver, Bronze) and their relevance to incident management.
Chapter 4 - Incident Risk Management
Dynamic Risk Assessment (DRA): Continuous process of identifying and managing risks in changing situations.
Analytical Risk Assessment (ARA): In-depth assessment providing detailed information on risks present at the incident.
Chapter 5 - Command Competence
Definition: Competence is the ability to apply knowledge, skills, and understanding effectively.
Assessment: Regular competency assessments are vital to maintain effective response capabilities.
Important Procedures
Tactical Modes
Offensive Mode: Engaging with the hazard directly, typically applies when potential benefits outweigh risks.
Defensive Mode: Used when risks outweigh benefits, limiting exposure to hazardous conditions.
Transitional Mode: Indicates simultaneous use of both offensive and defensive tactics across different sectors.
Communication Strategies
Information Flow: Establishing clear lines of communication and ensuring all personnel are updated regularly on the tactical mode and ongoing operations.
Effective Briefing: Use of concise, accurate information to ensure all team members are aware of their roles and safety procedures.
Key Terms
Incident Commander: The individual responsible for the overall management of the incident.
Safety Officer: Appointed to monitor safety and ensure compliance with safety procedures.
Command Support: Personnel tasked with administrative support for the Incident Commander.
Sector Commanders: Officers responsible for specific incident areas.
Conclusion
Training and Regular Reviews: Emphasizes continuous personal development, training for all command roles, and regular reviews of practice to ensure safety and effectiveness in operations.