Command: Log Section Overview
Purpose Statement
- The Log section within the Command Module provides comprehensive tracking and documentation of all changes and edits made within the command board. This feature enables incident commanders and administrative personnel to maintain detailed records of command decisions, unit assignments, and operational changes with precise timestamps and user attribution for accountability, compliance, and post-incident analysis.
Background Information
- The Log section serves as the official record-keeping system for command board activities during emergency incidents. This feature is essential for maintaining operational transparency, supporting after-action reviews, and ensuring compliance with departmental documentation requirements. The log automatically captures system changes while also allowing manual entries for important command decisions and observations that may not be automatically tracked by the system.
Required Permissions
- Users must have the appropriate level of
the Incident Commands 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
Additional permissions may be required for specific
functions like messaging and roster access based on integrated modules.
Video
Step by Step Guide
1. Log Entries can be searched by keyword and filtered by Assignment, Unit and Log by.
2. Every Log Entry is visible in the Log Section. Log Entries can be:
- Edited by selecting the Pencil Icon.
- Delete by selecting the Trashcan Icon.
3. Click the pencil to edit a log entry.
4. Make the appropriate changes and click Save when done.
5. To bulk delete a log entry, select the checkbox(s), then click the trashcan.
6. A pop-up will appear. Click confirm if you want to delete the entries.
7. Click on Create Log Entry to add a new Log Entry.
8. Enter the Log Entry information. If this Log Entry is attached to a specific Assignment, Unit or Divison choose those from the drop down menus.
Add an attachment (if warranted) and click Create.
Add an attachment (if warranted) and click Create.
Best Practices
Do's:
- Document important decisions: Create manual log entries for significant command decisions that may not be automatically captured
- Use descriptive entries: Write clear, concise descriptions that will be meaningful during post-incident review
- Associate appropriately: Link log entries to relevant units, assignments, or divisions for better organization
- Review regularly: Periodically review log entries during extended incidents to maintain situational awareness
- Attach supporting files: Include relevant photos or documents to support log entries when available
- Use search functions: Utilize keyword searches and filters to quickly locate specific information during active incidents
Don'ts:
- Don't use vague descriptions: Avoid generic entries like "unit moved" - specify which unit and where
- Don't delete entries carelessly: Remember that deletions are typically permanent and affect incident records
- Don't ignore file attachments: Missing documentation can impact post-incident analysis and reporting
- Don't forget to associate entries: Unlinked entries are harder to find and may not appear in relevant filtered views
- Don't rely solely on automatic entries: Manual documentation of key decisions is essential for complete records
Tips:
- Use consistent terminology: Maintain standard language across all log entries for easier searching
- Time-sensitive entries: Create log entries promptly while details are fresh and accurate
- Filter effectively: Combine keyword searches with dropdown filters for more precise results
- Export regularly: Download log data periodically during long incidents for backup purposes
- Search strategically: Use shorter keywords for broader results, longer phrases for specific searches
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Q: Why can't I create a new log entry?
A: Verify you have the "Log Create Permission" enabled for your user role. Contact your administrator if permissions need to be adjusted.
Q: My search isn't returning expected results.
A: Remember that keyword search uses fuzzy/partial matching. Try shorter search terms or check your spelling. Clear filters and try again if needed.
Q: Can I recover a deleted log entry?
A: Log entry deletions are typically permanent. Contact your system administrator immediately if critical entries were accidentally deleted.
Q: Why don't I see the edit or delete options?
A: These functions require specific permissions. Users without "Log Edit Permission" or "Log Delete Permission" will not see these options.
Q: How do I export only specific log entries?
A: Use the search and filter functions to display only the desired entries, then use the CSV or PDF export feature to download the filtered results.
Q: Can I add multiple files to a single log entry?
A: Yes, you can attach multiple files by using the browse function repeatedly or by selecting multiple files when browsing.
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