If there is no officer on the first-arriving unit, who assumes initial command?

When there is no officer on the first-arriving unit, the assumption of command typically falls to the senior firefighter present. This is because firefighting operations rely on a clear chain of command for effective coordination and safety. The senior firefighter, often identified through their rank, experience, or time on the job, has the responsibility to take charge and initiate the incident action plan. This includes assessing the situation, communicating clearly with the dispatcher and other units, and organizing firefighting efforts until a higher-ranking officer arrives to take over.

In this context, having someone assume command is crucial to ensure that life safety and incident stabilization are prioritized. Without a leader, the response could become chaotic and ineffective, ultimately compromising safety and operational success. The actions taken by the first-arriving firefighter provide a foundation for the incident management system that will be critical as more resources arrive on the scene.