During a fire response, which officer is usually responsible for tactics?

The company officer is typically responsible for tactics during a fire response. This role involves directing the actions of their specific crew during firefighting operations to effectively manage resources and execute strategies that support the incident commander’s overall objectives. The company officer has firsthand knowledge of their crew's capabilities and the equipment available, allowing them to make crucial tactical decisions tailored to the specific situation at hand.

In fireground operations, the company officer leads the team in executing assignments such as search and rescue, ventilation, or fire suppression tasks. This includes assessing conditions, determining the best course of action, and adapting tactics as the situation evolves. Their proximity to the action and intimate understanding of their team's strengths make them pivotal in the execution of tactical plans.

While the incident commander oversees the entire incident and makes strategic decisions regarding the overall incident management, the company officer focuses specifically on tactical operations within their assigned area.