Who assumes Command if the first arriving Engine Company is in Fast Attack Mode?

In a fireground scenario where the first arriving Engine Company is in Fast Attack Mode, it is crucial to establish clear command and communication. The correct choice, indicating that the Company Officer of the second Engine Company assumes command, is based on the principle that while the first Engine Company is actively engaged in firefighting operations, they may not be able to manage the overall incident effectively.

When the first Engine Company is committed to a Fast Attack, their focus is directed primarily toward addressing the immediate threat, which can limit their situational awareness and ability to coordinate broader tactical operations. Therefore, having a dedicated command structure is essential. The Company Officer of the second Engine Company steps in to take command, allowing the first crew to focus on their critical tasks without being distracted by command responsibilities.

This approach also ensures that the second arriving resource quickly establishes a clear overall strategy and operational framework, facilitating the integration of additional resources and coordinating efforts for a successful incident response.