Which rank is directly above a lieutenant in the fire service?

The rank that is directly above a lieutenant in the fire service is captain. In the typical hierarchy of the fire service, the progression often goes from firefighter to lieutenant, and then to captain. Captains typically have more administrative responsibilities, oversight of crews, and decision-making authority on the fire ground compared to lieutenants, who often focus on leadership during operations.

Understanding this chain of command is crucial for firefighters, as it structures how teams operate and communicate during incidents. The roles of captains often include managing resources, training personnel, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed, which are essential for effective fireground operations.