Emergency Response, Life Safety, and Incident Command Basics
Domain 4 tests emergency priorities and basic incident command. The exam expects life safety first, then incident stabilization, then property protection.
Core rules
- Recognize and report: call 911 early, give a clear address, nature of emergency, injuries, and hazards; do not hang up until released.
- Life safety: evacuate or defend in place according to the plan, keep exits clear, assist people with disabilities, and account for occupants at the assembly area.
- Do not enter a fire, hazardous atmosphere, or active-threat area without training and equipment. Isolate the area and keep others out.
- Incident command basics: one person in charge, common terminology, span of control, and clear transfer of command. Give arriving responders a concise size-up: what happened, actions taken, resources needed, and hazards.
Worked example
A fire alarm activates in a warehouse. Reasoning: treat it as real until verified; activate the evacuation plan, call 911, direct people to the assembly point, and prevent re-entry. Meet the fire department, report the alarm zone, and account for staff. The guard does not silence the alarm to avoid disruption.
Traps
Silencing alarms, re-entering before clearance, freelancing outside the plan, failing to account for people, and giving responders no handoff. Document actions and times.