Question

When a more qualified person arrives on scene, which statement best describes what happens? A. The more qualified person has options based on agency guidelines; these can include assuming command, maintaining command as is, or requesting a more qualified Incident Commander. B. The Emergency Operations Center Director must order a Transfer of Command. C. The more qualified person becomes the new Incident Commander at the beginning of the next operational period. D. The more qualified person automatically becomes the new Incident Commander and assumes command.

Answer 1

The correct answer is A

When a more qualified person arrives on scene, the more qualified person has options based on agency guidelines; these can include assuming command, maintaining command as is, or requesting a more qualified Incident Commander.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a more qualified person appears at a scene, it does not translate to a change in incident command. Notwithstanding, the more qualified person will have many option to explore which is within the scope of the agency guidelines. The more qualified person retains the existing command and supervises command activity effectively, or calls for a more experienced, knowledgeable commander from the agency.

FURTHER EXPLANATION

Some of the reasons why transfer of command may take place include when:

1. Changes in incident complexity
2. the urgent need to relieve incident commander due to incident extended duration
3. personal emergency arises
4. Agency Administrator directs a change in command

A transfer of command should take place eye-to-eye, including a presentation of detailed information for continuing safe and adequate operations.

However the effective time and date should be properly communicated to other personnel that engage in the operation.

The briefing in a transfer of command should include:

• Situation status
• Incident facilities
• Incident objectives and priorities
• Resources assignment
• Proper introduction of command and general staff
• Incident communication plan
• Incident prognosis, concerns, and other issues.

KEYWORDS:

• transfer of command
• agency guidelines
• incident commander
• qualified
• agency

Answer 2

Letter A is the correct answer.

When a more qualified person arrives on scene, it does NOT mean an automatic change in incident command. However, the more qualified person is going to have more options based on the agency guidelines, such as this person can assume command, maintain things as they are (with no change of incident commander) but monitor command activities and effectiveness, or request a more qualified incident commander.