This class will identify the specific duties of the incident commander, including conducting an initial size-up and risk assessment. We will evaluate “risk vs. gain” and forecast the needs and direction of an incident. We will also discuss the skills needed to monitor and answer radio traffic effectively during an incident. We will examine the importance of tactical worksheets and how they help organize tactical objectives, obtain benchmarks, and anticipate the need for crew rotation. Real life examples will be used throughout the class using information garnered from NIOSH Fatality Reports.