What role does the Incident Commander (IC) play regarding RIC?

The Incident Commander (IC) is responsible for the overall management of an incident, and this includes the critical function of deploying the Rapid Intervention Crew (RIC). The IC assesses the scene, determines the need for a RIC based on the situation, and ensures that the crew is properly deployed to stand by or intervene if firefighters become trapped or require assistance. This oversight is essential for maintaining a robust safety framework during operations, as the IC must coordinate the various resources and teams on site to ensure all safety protocols are observed.

By overseeing the RIC deployment, the IC plays a pivotal role in ensuring that rescue operations are well-organized and that there are dedicated personnel ready to respond quickly if the need arises. The presence of a RIC is a proactive measure that enhances the safety of all personnel engaged in firefighting efforts, and it is the IC's responsibility to ensure these resources are utilized effectively and efficiently.