What is the recommended action when a transfer of command occurs?

What is the recommended action when a transfer of command occurs?

• A. Notice of transfer should be sent immediately to all parties involved
• B. The transfer should be kept confidential
• C. Only the incoming commander should be notified
• D. It is optional to notify others

Answer: (B)

When a transfer of command occurs, the change should be made visible to all parties involved. A formal handoff is conducted at the incident scene with both the outgoing and incoming commanders present, and includes a concise briefing on the current incident status, resource assignments, safety considerations, and objectives. The incoming commander officially assumes command, and the change is documented in the incident records so everyone knows who is in charge and whom to report to. Keeping the transfer confidential would create confusion, gaps in authority, and safety risks, while notifying only the incoming or making notification optional would leave responders without essential situational awareness.

When a transfer of command occurs, the change should be made visible to all parties involved. A formal handoff is conducted at the incident scene with both the outgoing and incoming commanders present, and includes a concise briefing on the current incident status, resource assignments, safety considerations, and objectives. The incoming commander officially assumes command, and the change is documented in the incident records so everyone knows who is in charge and whom to report to. Keeping the transfer confidential would create confusion, gaps in authority, and safety risks, while notifying only the incoming or making notification optional would leave responders without essential situational awareness.