What is the first priority for departments responding to an incident?

The first priority for departments responding to an incident is that the first unit to arrive shall assume command. This process is essential for establishing a clear and organized response to an emergency. When the first unit arrives on the scene, it takes a leadership role, allowing for immediate assessment and implementation of necessary actions. This ensures that resources are allocated efficiently, that responders have clear guidance, and that there is a unified approach to managing the incident.

This principle supports effective incident management, facilitating communication among various units and ensuring that operations can begin promptly. It helps to create a structured operational environment where decisions can be made quickly, which is crucial in emergency situations where time is critical.

In contrast, the other choices do not align with effective incident command protocols. Requiring only senior personnel to assume command may lead to delays, especially if no senior personnel are immediately available. Insisting that the Fire Chief must be present for command could significantly hinder response times, as the Chief may not always be the first on the scene. Lastly, waiting for all units to arrive before establishing command would likely cause confusion and inefficiency, jeopardizing the overall response effort.