Incident status case
features
Dispatches
A handy item for any incident commander is the portable incident command status case. It need not be elaborate or expensive. An old briefcase, a white enameled metal sheet (magnet board is excellent), some small magnets, roll magnets, erasable markers, and information guides do quite well.
The markers are used to sketch the incident and draw color coded information on the magnet board. Different colors are used to denote topography, supply lines, handlines, etc. If you have scaledrawn pre-plans, cover them with a sheet of clear plastic and place them on the magnet board. The magnets can then be used on top of the pre-plans to show positions of apparatus, designate special call units, and identify sector commanders. A magnet has been labeled for all our department’s officers and apparatus as well as all mutual aid units. Magnetic labels are easier to use than markers, and can serve as a reminder of available units not yet called.
There are several forms for incident command management, and most are quite good. They provide your hard copy for post incident analysis and records. You may want to devise your own or make alterations to those already available to fit your needs.
In addition to the status board, a small library of hazardous material guides, lists of special units with phone numbers, and a file of preplans are essential items to have on hand. We also include a telephone handset and binoculars. The incident command case may remain at the command post or be utilized by subordinate commanders at their positions.
A status board will ease the management burden on the incident commander by helping him to do a better job. When the incident commander is familiar with its use, it also builds confidence. A good way to increase familiarity is to use the board for tactical drills in training. Each officer should take turns commanding an incident in these simulated situations.
photo by Phyllis Clark
photo by Allen Clark
The total cost of our unit was less than $60, including the case (a standard briefcase), binoculars, and homemade handset.
