Why is it important for the Incident Commander to detail units to remain at the fire scene?

The importance of having the Incident Commander detail units to remain at the fire scene is primarily to monitor the area until the fire marshal arrives. This ongoing monitoring is crucial for several reasons.

First, it ensures safety by preventing unauthorized access to the site and protecting against rekindling of the fire. Fires can easily reignite or spread if not properly contained, so having personnel on site is essential to maintain vigilance and address any potential hazards.

Additionally, the presence of fire units allows for the collection of evidence while the situation is still fresh, aiding in the investigation that the fire marshal will conduct. They can document the condition of the scene and provide insights into the circumstances surrounding the incident, which is invaluable for determining the cause and ensuring that proper safety protocols are followed in the future.

While assisting the community, supporting health resources, or ensuring the return of equipment are all important tasks, the specific priority of monitoring the fire scene is critical to maintaining safety and facilitating a thorough investigation.