The objectives of this unit are as follows:

• Describe the process of transfer of command.
• List the essential elements of information involved in transfer of command.

Transfer of command may take place for many reasons, including when:

• A jurisdiction or agency is legally required to take command.
• Change of command is necessary for effectiveness or efficiency.
• Incident complexity changes.
• There is a need to relieve personnel on incidents of extended duration.
• Personal emergencies arise (e.g., Incident Commander has a family emergency).
• Agency administrator directs a change in command.

The arrival of a more qualified person does NOT necessarily mean a change in incident command.

The more qualified individual may:

• Assume command according to agency guidelines.
• Maintain command as it is and monitor command activity and effectiveness.
• Request a more qualified Incident Commander from the agency with more experience and/or specialized training.

One of the main features of ICS is a procedure to transfer command with minimal disruption to the incident. This procedure may be used any time personnel in supervisory positions change.

Whenever possible, transfer of command should:

• Take place face-to-face.
• Include a complete briefing.

The effective time and date of the transfer should be communicated to personnel.

A transfer of command briefing should always take place. The briefing should include:

• Situation status.
• Incident objectives and priorities.
• Current organization.
• Resource assignments.
• Resources ordered and en route.
• Incident facilities.
• Incident communications plan.
• Incident prognosis, concerns, and other issues.
• Introduction of Command and General Staff members.

Agency policies and incident-specific issues may alter the transfer of command process. In all cases, the information shared must be documented and saved for easy retrieval during and after the incident.

The initial Incident Commander can use the ICS Form 201 to document actions and situational information.

For more complex transfer of command situations, every aspect of the incident must be documented and included in the transfer of command briefing.

Are you now able to:

• Describe the process of transfer of command?\
• List the essential elements of information involved in transfer of command?

The next unit will summarize the key learning points of the course.