Safety Trained Supervisor (STS) Practice Exam

Which function is always filled at every emergency incident regardless of its size?

1. Safety officer

2. Incident commander

3. Logistical officer

4. Public information officer

The correct answer is: Incident commander

The function of the incident commander is essential in managing emergency incidents, regardless of their size. The incident commander is responsible for the overall coordination and administration of the response efforts, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively and that operational objectives are met. They serve as the primary decision-maker, establishing command, setting incident objectives, and guiding the incident management team. In every emergency response scenario, having a clear authority figure to lead the incident management is critical to maintaining order, direction, and coordination among various responding resources. This position helps to streamline communication and decision-making, making it feasible to respond effectively to the situation at hand. While other roles, such as the safety officer, logistical officer, and public information officer, contribute to the incident's management, they may not be necessary in every situation or may be filled as the incident escalates. The incident command role, however, is foundational, as it ensures that there is always someone in charge who can direct the response appropriately, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the operation.