Command Setup: Divisions
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
Accessing Division Management
- Navigate to the Response module, select Command Setup, then select Divisions
Creating a New Division
- Select Add a Division, enter the division name in the provided field and then select Save.
Editing an Existing Division
- Locate the division you want to edit in the active list, select the pencil icon next to the division name, make the necessary edits to the division name, select Save to confirm changes
Archiving a Division
- Locate the division you want to archive in the active list, select the file box icon next to the division name, confirm your decision to archive the division and the division will be removed from the active list and moved to the archive section
Reactivating an Archived Division
- Navigate to the Archive section within divisions, locate the archived division you want to reactivate, select the check mark next to the division name then select Confirm. Return to the active list to verify the division now appears as active
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.
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