Final answer:
The statement is false; the principle of exception is useful in fire department command structures as it allows higher-level officers to concentrate on significant incidents, while lower-level officers manage routine situations, leading to more efficient operation and resource management.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the principle of exception should not be used in fire department command structures is false. The principle of exception, or management by exception, is a management principle that says managers should be informed about a situation only if data show a significant deviation from set standards. In the context of fire department command structures, this principle would allow higher-level officers to focus on critical incidents and strategic decision-making rather than routine incidents. It leads to quicker response times and more efficient resource management because it empowers lower-level officers to handle small, routine situations without escalating them, thereby unburdening the command hierarchy.
In essence, the principle of exception encourages decentralization for routine matters while ensuring that significant issues are escalated and addressed at the appropriate level of the command structure. In emergencies and crisis management where every second counts, such as firefighting, this approach is vital for effective operation. By employing the principle of exception, fire departments can maintain a more organized and effective command structure.