Which action is typically performed to ensure accountability on scene?

• A. Establish personnel accountability
• B. Transmit initial report
• C. Establish command
• D. Size-up

Answer: (A)

On scene, keeping track of who is present, what they’re assigned to do, and where they are at all times is essential for safety and effective operation. This is accomplished by establishing a personnel accountability system, which creates a formal check-in/check-out process and a way to monitor each responder’s assignment and location. A clear accountability system lets the incident commander quickly see who is on scene, identify anyone unaccounted for, and arrange safe rescue or reallocation of resources as needed. Transmitting the initial report, establishing command, and performing a size-up are important steps, but they don’t by themselves establish the ongoing tracking of people in the same way a dedicated accountability process does.