What is the role of the Incident Commander regarding RIC deployment?

The role of the Incident Commander regarding Rapid Intervention Crew (RIC) deployment is focused on managing the strategic deployment and management of the RIC. This includes ensuring that RIC is properly positioned, equipped, and ready to respond swiftly to any emergencies involving trapped or downed firefighters. The Incident Commander is responsible for the overall incident strategy and prioritizes the safety of all personnel, which encompasses effective RIC operations as part of the incident management team.

This role demands comprehensive situational awareness and the ability to make timely decisions, particularly regarding resource allocation and the readiness of the RIC. By managing the RIC effectively, the Incident Commander plays a critical role in enhancing the safety of firefighters on the scene and ensuring assistance is available should an emergency situation arise.

While overseeing firefighting operations and assessing the incident site for safety are essential functions of the Incident Commander, their specific responsibility for the RIC is to ensure it is strategically deployed and managed to optimize response capabilities. Training RIC members on equipment, although important, falls outside the direct responsibilities of the Incident Commander and typically falls to designated training personnel or officers.