New officers, are you ready to run the show?

Incident command is an essential function that every member must grasp early in their career. After all, just about any member could find themselves in this vital role, for example, if they are the first or highest-ranking member on scene. Would you know what to do? This FireRescue1 special coverage series shares a comprehensive approach for training members on the IC position, tackling the do’s and don’t of commanding your first fire, delivery of size-up quality reports and improving radio skills for new commanders, how to manage multiple crews, department procedures involving move-up assignments and more.

The do’s and don’ts of commanding your first fire

What new incident commanders should and shouldn’t do before, during and after their first fire

Essential radio skills for new incident commanders

How to control emotions, use technology and “practice perfect” to enhance fireground communications
Managing multiple crews: Knowing how to prioritize and deploy resources

Strategies the IC can employ to effectively coordinate resources and handle the growing list of tasks
How to deliver a strong 360-degree size-up

A quick trip around the building can illuminate key factors related to victims, building access and fire location

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Congratulations, you’re a new company officer! Now what?
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Five steps to establish a solid track record, plus key legal and ethical issues to consider
Reality Training: Tips for setting up incident command
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The first five minute determine how the rest of the incident will go. In this FireRescue1 Academy Reality Training video, Chief Rob Wylie reviews best practices for setting up incident command, covering position of the command post, size-up and anticipating additional resources.
Managing the risk of ‘move-up’ assignments in fire departments
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Preparing members for greater responsibility, including serving as the incident commander
Policy points: 3 essential elements for incident command policies and procedures
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Fire department incident command procedures should address initial actions, staffing and command transfer
Q&A: Coaching is critical in training new incident commanders
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Deputy Chief Steve Prziborowski explains how to effectively coach ICs at fire scenes, and shares some first fire do’s and don’ts
Code 3 Podcast: How to develop command presence
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Tom Merrill discusses command presence – what it is and why it’s important
Tips for ICs managing high-risk/low-frequency incidents
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Using training and reinforcement to build organizational resiliency to manage events we haven’t experienced before