Skip to main content

Search

Knowledge Center

Command Setup: Annotations

Purpose Statement

This feature allows users to create, edit, and manage visual annotations within the Command Module's map interface. Annotations provide essential visual communication tools for incident commanders to mark areas, measure distances, add text notes, and highlight important locations during emergency response operations, enhancing situational awareness and tactical decision-making.

Background Information

The annotation system in the Command Module provides six distinct annotation types that can be customized for appearance and functionality:

  • Line
  • Polygon
  • Circle
  • Rectangle
  • Text, 
  • Measuring tool
  • Arrow 

These annotations are displayed on the command board's map section, allowing incident commanders and authorized personnel to visually communicate critical information during active incidents. Common use cases include marking hazard zones, establishing perimeters, measuring distances for equipment placement, and adding contextual notes to specific map locations.

Required Permissions

Users must have the appropriate level of the Incident Commands Templates permission configured in their role:
  • Read: View command boards in read-only mode
  • Update: Modify command board settings and information
  • Create: Initiate new command boards and add custom items
  • Delete: Remove command board elements and complete incidents

Video 

Step-by-Step Guide
 

1.  In Web Responder, select the Responder Module and then Command Setup.


 
2.  In Command Setup, select Annotations.


 
3.  The Command Module allows for annotations to have predetermined styles and colors. These are configured for each of the annotations
 
  1. Line
  2. Polygon
  3. Circle
  4. Rectangle
  5. Text
  6. Measuring Tool

 
4.  To configure each Annotation, choose from the options located within each Annotation.
 

 
5. Then select Preview Styles to review the choices for each Annotation

 
6.   When satisfied with the desired choices, select Save,
 

Best Practices

  • Use High Contrast Colors: Select colors that stand out clearly against map backgrounds for optimal visibility during high-stress situations
  • Consider Transparency Levels: Set transparency between 20-40% for filled areas to maintain map visibility while clearly marking zones
  • Standardize Line Widths: Use consistent line widths (3-5 points recommended) across annotation types for professional appearance
  • Test Visibility: Preview annotations against different map views (satellite, street, terrain) to ensure visibility across all map types
  • Color Coding Standards: Establish department-wide color coding conventions (e.g., red for hazard zones, blue for safe areas, yellow for staging)
  • Regular Review: Periodically review and update annotation styles based on user feedback and operational needs

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: Why can't I see my annotation style changes on the command board? 
A: Ensure you clicked "Save" after making changes. If changes still don't appear, refresh the command board interface or check your browser cache.

Q: Can different users have different annotation styles? 
A: No, annotation styles are system-wide settings that apply to all users with annotation access. Individual users cannot customize styles independently.

Q: What happens if I set transparency to 0%? 
A: Setting transparency to 0% makes the annotation completely opaque, which may obscure important map details underneath.

Q: Why do my annotations look different on mobile devices? 
A: Annotation display may vary slightly on mobile devices due to screen size limitations. Test critical annotation styles on both desktop and mobile interfaces.

Q: Can I reset annotation styles to default settings? 
A: Contact your system administrator to restore default annotation configurations if needed.