Who decides what assignment the outgoing incident commander should assume in a transfer of command situation?

In a transfer of command situation, it is crucial for the incoming incident commander to determine the assignment that the outgoing incident commander will take on. This decision is based on the current needs of the incident and the skills and capabilities of the personnel involved. The incoming incident commander has a fresh perspective on the situation and is in a position to assess how to best utilize the outgoing commander’s experience and familiarity with the ongoing incident.

The incoming incident commander will consider the overall strategic needs of the incident, the roles of other team members, and the skills of the outgoing commander to ensure a seamless transition and maintain operational effectiveness. This allows for continued progress on the incident while leveraging the outgoing commander's understanding of the situation. It's a critical aspect of effective incident management, ensuring that there is clarity in roles and responsibilities during what can often be a chaotic time.