Once the online portion has been successfully completed, students must pass a hands-on evaluation session that lasts 3 full days (depending on class size) before they can become a fully certified Local – Type 4 and 5 Incident Commander. This evaluation consists of running 15-20 fire simulations a day with brief incident reviews conducted between each simulation. This session tests their ability to perform the responsibilities of an:
- Initial On-Scene Officer
- Incident Commander
- Incident Management Team (IMT) Member
- Sector/Division/Group Supervisor/Safety Officer
- Continue, Transfer & Terminate Command
Evaluation benchmarks are based on the eight standard functions of command as well as the proper utilization of local resources, tactical guidelines and SOPs. To pass, students must successfully complete two command- and tactical-level positions for each of five simulations. Students are also evaluated on the Incident Command positions for all five building-type simulations. They are then given a written exam that requires a minimum score of 75 percent to pass. Testing can be done through the student’s department, a regional command training facility or at a community college that offers the certification program.
Nick & John Brunacini are seen preparing a class of Incident Commanders for a Command Simulation:
Re-Certification
The Blue Card Command Officers certificate is valid for three years. At the end of that period, an Officer must have a minimum of 36 hours of command and tactical training and experience (12 hours per year) in order to be re-evaluated and re-tested for certification.
Video of Incident Commander Deploying Resources
