Which role monitors safety and advises the Incident Commander about unsafe conditions?

• A. Operations Officer
• B. Team Leader
• C. Recon Officer
• D. Safety Officer

Answer: (D)

In an incident, safety is overseen by the Safety Officer. This person watches for hazards, constantly assesses risks to responders and the public, and keeps safety front and center as operations unfold. They review conditions against safety policies, ensure proper PPE and procedures are in place, and advise the Incident Commander on when and how to adjust tactics to stay safe. If a situation becomes too hazardous, the Safety Officer has the authority to stop or modify work to prevent injuries and protect people. While others manage tactics or gather information, the Safety Officer’s primary role is monitoring safety and guiding decisions to keep the operation as safe as possible.