Which is the third command function?

• A. Assume an effective command position
• B. Size-up
• C. Communications
• D. Strategy

Answer: (C)

When taking control at an incident, you move through a sequence of command functions to establish control and guide actions. First, you assume an effective command position to gain a clear vantage point and authority. Next, you perform a size-up to quickly collect critical information about conditions, hazards, and resource needs. The third function is establishing communications: setting up reliable channels between the incident command, on-scene units, and any support staff, and ensuring everyone can share updates, directives, and resource requests.

Clear, continuous communications are essential because they enable coordinated actions, accurate situation awareness, and timely resource deployment. Without solid communications, you can’t effectively implement strategy or keep safety priorities aligned. After establishing communications, you then develop the strategy—the overall plan and objectives guiding how you’ll use available resources to manage the incident.

So the third command function is establishing communications.