Organizing to Improve Performance

Firefighting requires an exceptional level of organization. That is why there are command structures: they make operations safer and more effective and providefor better coordination.

Command Structures – Patrick Déry (subtitles available in FR and EN) – Watch the video with the transcript (EN).

The City of Saint-Eustache Fire Safety Department has a paramilitary-style hierarchical structure. Each rank (firefighter, lieutenant, captain, fire chief) has its own tasks and special roles. It’s very important for each member of the team to act in accordance with his or her rank, and the hierarchy guarantees cohesion among the members. In the field, an officer, called the commanding officer, supervises and coordinates all the firefighters. The commanding officer’s role is to take a step back; they are stationed behind a mobile command table. Why? So that they have a view of the whole fire or rescue operation and can decide on the best response strategy.

Command Structures – Patrick Déry (subtitles available in FR and EN) – Watch the video with the transcript (EN).

Arriving at the scene, the officer with the highest rank – either the chief or a captain – is automatically in command. They must very quickly make a fresh analysis of the situation. They have two options: take responsibility for operations or delegate that responsibility to another officer, who will then become head of operations. If they choose the second option, the officer remains on the scene and provides the team with advice and support.

Command Structures – Patrick Déry (subtitles available in FR and EN) – Watch the video with the transcript (EN).