Your Opinion August 2, 2012
Posted by Jim Silvernail in Size Up.trackback
For the last few years I have had the opportunity to lecture at FDIC and at our own State Fire School (Missouri). I have learned that the best lectures arn’t truly lectures, they are interactions. Taking it a step further, the best interactions (like a good novel) are those that have many different view points from a diverse group with some controversial issues. My favorite issue is the interpretation of ICS and NIMS in relation to the first due officer. I always pose the question: “Where should the first due officer be and what should his/her role be in relation to taking command?” So, what do you think? Voice in on our Facebook page as well!
Hi Jim,
Since the early 1980′s in the St. Louis area, we have taught since the inception of Chief Brunacini’s Fireground Command, the National Fire Academy ICS and now NIMS that the First Due Company Officer is in Command of the incident until Command is properly transferred (preferably face to face) on the scene to next arriving or higher ranking Officer.
Even if the First Due Company Officer is actively engaged in the initial tactical operations, he/she is still responsible for the safety of the public and the crew(s) operating on the scene.
To my understanding, many departments are no longer allowing the passing of Command by radio transmission by the first due officer due to liability concerns.
Out of necessity, can the First Due Company Officer be engaged in the initial interior tactics of a structure fire? Yes and through a preset SOG, the second arriving Officer should automatically establish the function of Command and begin radio communication with the first due Company Officer working the in interior.
Keep up the good work on Suburban Fire Tactics….a great subject for all to understand.
Perfectly said! Thank you Chief!