During fire incidents, what is the span of control typically recommended for a supervisor?

The recommended span of control for a supervisor during fire incidents is typically 1-7 personnel. This range strikes a balance between effective management and oversight of response efforts. The reason this is considered optimal is that it allows the supervisor to maintain close communication, provide guidance, and ensure safety and efficiency without becoming overwhelmed by the number of individuals they are responsible for.

When a supervisor manages too few personnel, they might not be utilizing resources to their full potential. Conversely, if the number of personnel exceeds seven, the supervisor may struggle to maintain situational awareness and provide effective support, increasing the risk of mistakes or oversight during critical operations. Thus, the 1-7 range provides the appropriate level of control and support needed during complex fire incidents where conditions can change rapidly.