Command Boards
Fire & EMS Command Boards for Incident Command Operations
Fire & EMS command boards provide a structured, visual way for incident command staff to manage operations, track resources, and maintain situational awareness during emergency response. Within the Incident Command System (ICS), effective command depends on clear organization, defined roles, and accurate information—all of which are supported through the use of command boards.
Command boards serve as a centralized reference point for documenting assignments, tracking personnel and apparatus, and organizing tactical priorities. By presenting critical information in a clear, visible format, they help Incident Commanders and Section Chiefs make faster, more informed decisions in dynamic and rapidly evolving environments.
In addition to traditional dry-erase or magnetic command boards used on scene, digital command boards extend these capabilities by allowing information to be updated, shared, and displayed across multiple locations. This supports coordination between field operations, command vehicles, and Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs), improving communication and continuity throughout the incident.
Designed for real-world Fire & EMS operations, command boards support the ICS framework by reinforcing accountability, improving communication, and helping agencies manage incidents more effectively from initial response through extended operations.
Built for On-Scene and Coordinated Command
Whether used at the incident command post or shared digitally across command staff, command boards provide a practical tool for organizing operations, supporting resource coordination, and maintaining control of the incident under a structured command system.
ICS Dry Erase Command Board
ICS Dry Erase Command Board Sturdy, Full Color Dry Erase Command Board This command board is a..
Tactical Control Magnetic Incident Command Board
Tactical Control Magnetic Incident Command Board The Ultimate Portable Tactical Control Board ..
DMS Digital Command®
DMS Digital Command® Enhance Your Command Boards & Worksheets Enhance your dry erase comma..
Custom Command Boards
Custom Command Boards Let DMS Design and Build your Custom, Full Color Dry Erase / Digital Comm..
Supporting Incident Command Operations
Command boards are designed to support the operational structure required by the Incident Command System, providing a clear and organized method for managing assignments, resources, and tactical priorities. They help transform complex incident information into a format that is easy to understand and act on in real time.
- Command Visibility: Maintain a clear overview of incident objectives, assignments, and operational priorities
- Resource Tracking: Monitor personnel, apparatus, and equipment deployment across the incident scene
- Operational Accountability: Track assignments and responsibilities to ensure organized incident management
- Improved Communication: Provide a shared visual reference that reduces reliance on radio traffic
- Digital Coordination: Enable remote viewing, collaboration, and after-action review through digital command board systems
Command boards are commonly used to track assignments, personnel accountability, and operational objectives, helping ensure that incident information remains organized and accessible throughout the response.
Aligned with ICS Leadership Structure
Command boards support coordination across all ICS functional areas, helping leadership maintain control and situational awareness throughout the incident:
- Incident Commander: Oversees incident objectives, strategy, and overall command
- Operations Section Chief: Manages tactical assignments, divisions, and branches
- Planning Section Chief: Maintains situational awareness and develops the Incident Action Plan
- Logistics Section Chief: Coordinates personnel, equipment, and support resources
ICS provides a standardized structure for command, control, and coordination, allowing multiple agencies to operate within a unified framework during emergency response.
Common Uses for Fire & EMS Command Boards
- Structure fires and fireground command operations
- Mass casualty incidents (MCIs)
- Hazardous materials (HazMat) responses
- Technical rescue and complex incidents
- Multi-agency unified command situations
- Training exercises and after-action reviews
Explore Related Fire & EMS Command Tools
- Incident Command System (ICS) Tools
- Command Vest & Flag Kits (for role identification and scene organization)
- EMT3® MCI Response Kits
- All Risk® Triage Tags
- Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Solutions