Firefighter training drill by Forest Reeder
Primary tasks for the rapid intervention company (RIC) revolve around the type of strategy that is being implemented at the incident. At defensive operations, RIC functions might be reduced to standby modes whereas at offensive operations, RIC will have significant duties that usually have to be performed very quickly.
Each situation is different, so an effective size-up is necessary to identify the priority of the tasks to be performed. Use the following lists to lead a discussion among your crews on the primary RIC duties at sample incidents. Outline how these tasks are to be completed and what factors you consider when making RIC action plans. Review your crew tool assignments and department policies for size-up and functions of the RIC.
Download this firefighter training drill as a PDF HERE.
More in The Fireground Playbook series.
MAD Training and Response Solutions
Forest Reeder began his fire service career in 1978 and retired as fire chief of the Tinley Park (IL) Fire Department in 2021. He has worked extensively in the areas of instruction, firefighter safety, and officer development and earned his Master of Science Degree in Public Safety Administration in 2004. He is the author of Fire Department Incident Safety Officer 4th edition (2025) and co-author of Fire Service Instructor Principles and Practices, now in its 3rd edition. Forest presents nationally on fire service leadership, safety, and instructor development. He was inducted into the Moraine Valley Community College Alumni Hall of Fame in 2020 and awarded the Distinguished Alumnus award in 2021. In 2008, he received the ISFSI George D. Post Instructor of the Year, considered to be the highest recognition for fire service instructors in the nation.
