What does the Incident Commander do in fire control operations?

The role of the Incident Commander in fire control operations is crucial and encompasses several responsibilities, including managing and coordinating the overall response to an incident. One of the primary tasks is to guide the direct operations to suppress the fire, which includes cutting off the fire's source and effectively putting it out. This involves making strategic decisions about where and how to deploy resources, directing firefighting teams, and implementing tactics that will safely extinguish the flames.

In carrying out this function, the Incident Commander must have a clear understanding of the fire's behavior, the structure's layout, and any potential hazards. While coordinating the evacuation of personnel, assessing risks, and reviewing past incidents can be part of their broader responsibilities, the immediate and most critical task of the Incident Commander during fire management is actively overseeing the fire suppression efforts. This ensures that the incident's objectives are met while prioritizing the safety of all personnel involved.