When should a Fire Captain conduct a post-incident review?

A Fire Captain should conduct a post-incident review after significant incidents to evaluate performance and outcomes because this process provides an opportunity to analyze what occurred during the incident, identify strengths and weaknesses, and determine areas for improvement. This evaluation is crucial for understanding how effectively the crew responded, assessing the tactics used, and ensuring that all team members learn from the experience. By focusing on significant incidents, the review can lead to more impactful changes in training, equipment usage, and procedures, ultimately enhancing the overall effectiveness and safety of future responses.

Conducting a post-incident review after minor incidents may not yield as significant insights, as these instances generally do not present the same complexities or high-stakes situations as major incidents. Relying solely on state law mandates may limit the review process to a reactive stance rather than a proactive approach to continuous improvement. Additionally, addressing the review before the next scheduled drill does not allow for adequate reflection and assessment, which should occur after an actual incident rather than in anticipation of future training exercises.