What role does an Incident Commander play in communication during an incident?

The role of the Incident Commander in communication during an incident is paramount, as they are ultimately responsible for overseeing all aspects of communication. This includes internal communication with team members, coordination between different agencies or departments, and managing the flow of information both to and from the media and the public. The Incident Commander must ensure that the information shared is accurate, timely, and consistent to prevent misinformation and maintain a clear operational picture. This central role is critical in maintaining command and control over the incident, enabling effective decision-making and fostering cooperation among all emergency response personnel.