Purpose Statement
The Division management feature in the Command module allows incident commanders and administrators to create, edit, and manage geographic divisions for incident command operations. This feature enables better span of control management on larger or more complex incidents by organizing response areas into manageable sections under division supervisors.
Background Information
Divisions are geographic areas that are typically assigned to division supervisors during incident operations. They are essential for maintaining effective command and control on complex incidents where the span of control might otherwise become unmanageable for the incident commander. Common division applications include:
- Specific floors on multi-story or high-rise incidents
- Sections of wildland fire perimeter or fire line
- Building sides designated as Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, or Delta
- Geographic zones in large-scale emergency operations
- This feature is particularly valuable for departments that regularly respond to complex incidents requiring multiple resource assignments and structured command operations.
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. Navigate to Divisions
- Open the Main Menu
- Select Response
- Select Command Setup
2. In Command Setup, select Divisions.
3. Search for Existing Divisions
- Use the search field at the top of the list
- Enter the division name or partial text
- Review the search results
The search uses fuzzy search functionality, meaning:
- Partial text matches may appear
- Similar results may also display
To clear the search:
- Select Reset
4. Customize Displayed Columns
- Select the column management option
- Choose which columns should display
5. Columns can be:
- Rearranged
- Resized
- Sorted ascending
- Sorted descending
- Reset to default sorting
6. Create a New Division
- Select the Division button
7. Complete the required and optional information:
- A. Enter the Name for the Divisions
- B. Select Save
8. Edit an Existing Division
- Locate the division in the list
- Select the Pencil Icon
- Make the necessary changes
- Select Save
9. Archive a Division
- Select the archive or file box icon next to the division
- Select Confirm
The division will move to the archived list.
10. Reactivate an Archived Division
- Navigate to the archived list
- Select the checkmark icon next to the division
- Select Confirm
The division will return to the active list and become available for use.
11. Bulk Archive Multiple Divisions
- Select one or more checkboxes next to the desired Divisions
- Select the Bulk Archive button
- Confirm the archive action
12. Bulk Add Divisions
- Select the Bulk Add button
- Enter multiple division names into the text field
- Place each entry on a separate line
Once complete:
- Select Preview Import
During preview:
- Entries are compared against existing divisions
- Duplicate entries are marked invalid
- Invalid entries will not import
To complete the import:
- Select Import
All valid records will appear in the division list.
Best Practices
- Use standardized naming conventions for divisions (e.g., Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta for building sides)
- Create divisions based on your department's standard operating procedures
- Regularly review and update division names to reflect current operational needs
- Archive divisions that are no longer relevant rather than deleting them to maintain historical data
- Consider creating divisions for common incident types your department encounters
- Coordinate division naming with regional mutual aid partners for consistency during joint operations
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Q: Why can't I see the Add a Division button?
A: Ensure you have proper administrative permissions for the Command module. Contact your system administrator if access issues persist.
Q: Can I delete a division permanently?
A: The system uses archiving rather than permanent deletion to maintain data integrity. Archived divisions can be reactivated if needed.
Q: How many divisions can I create?
A: There is no preset limit on the number of divisions you can create, but consider operational practicality and span of control principles.
Q: Will archived divisions appear in incident command screens?
A: No, only active divisions will be available for selection during incident operations. Archived divisions must be reactivated to be used.
Q: Can I change a division name after it's been used in incidents?
A: Yes, you can edit division names, but consider the impact on historical incident records and reporting.