Establishing command refers to which action?

• A. A formal joint information system activation
• B. The first arriving unit initiating ICS
• C. The incident command post being established by the fire chief
• D. Secondary command transfer between units

Answer: (B)

Establishing command happens the moment the first unit on scene takes responsibility for managing the incident, declares Command, and begins to organize using the ICS. That initial move sets the incident commander, starts the on-scene size-up, and creates the Incident Command Post as the hub for directing actions and coordination. From there, the IC begins setting objectives, deciding the initial strategy, and assigning resources through the established command structure. Public information activities are handled separately and don’t constitute establishing command on the scene. While the ICP and leadership may evolve or be assumed by a more senior officer later, the defining action is the first arriving unit stepping in to take charge and organize the response. Transfers of command occur after Command has already been established, not the act of establishing it.