Incident Commander Case Study

Introduction

For the incident commander (IC) every service is an intensely personal walk, full of highs and lows that can alternate by the second. Nobody has to make more exhilarating, critical and sometimes stressful decisions, in a suitable timeframe than the commander making these vital assessments. Moreover, at every, incident objectives will be established, the appropriate strategy will be selected and tactics applied to that strategy. Further, establish an Incident Command System (ICS), install an Incident Action Plan (IAP), and prepare for the transfer of command to ensure no interruption of the mitigation process. “Regardless of the type of deployment…underestimating the need for planning and logistical support will result in an inability to coordinate the scene.” (Shouldis 69).

Likewise, the IC needs an assist from group/division supervisors to become his/her eyes and ears in areas out of commands line of sight. Further, the information relayed back to command by the group/division supervisors will aid in making more informed decisions and expedite resource placement to quicken the mitigation process. Every disaster comes with challenges, no matter what the situation the key is to be ready for anything. Accordingly, fall back on pre-planning, always show poise, do not be overwhelmed by the moment. Further, rely on branch supervisors and delegate responsibility and decision making to those managers. “The Incident Commander assumes a high level of responsibility due to the need to protect lives and property while ensuring the safety of…as they attempt to accomplish their task.” (Smith