The command must communicate with the relieved officer using either radio or face-to-face contact.

• A. Radio or face to face
• B. Phone call
• C. Email
• D. Text message

Answer: (A)

Transferring command on the fireground requires a channel that is immediate, clear, and verifiable. Using radio or face-to-face contact meets that need because it provides real-time, two-way communication and allows the relieved officer to confirm the transfer right away. Radio is the standard on scene, giving continuous, audible interaction with units and ensuring commands are heard and acknowledged. Face-to-face contact adds the advantage of direct interaction, quick clarification, and the ability to observe nonverbal cues that help prevent misunderstandings.

Phone calls can be compromised by noise, distance, or coverage gaps and aren’t as integrated into incident command systems. Email and text messages are asynchronous, so they can delay the transfer or lead to missed or misinterpreted information during a fast-changing situation.

Therefore, radio or face-to-face communication is the appropriate method for conveying the transfer of command.