Determining exactly which units to send to a call depends on the location of the incident and the:

• A. Identity of the caller
• B. Classification/ Type of the Incident
• C. Time since last response of the nearest units
• D. Time lapse between call receipt and dispatch

Answer: (B)

The main factor in deciding exactly which units to send is the classification or type of the incident. Different incident types require different capabilities, equipment, and specialists, so knowing what kind of event you’re dealing with directly determines the appropriate response. For example, a structure fire calls for engine and ladder companies, water supply considerations, and possibly rescue or EMS; a vehicle crash might need extrication tools and EMS; a hazardous materials incident would require hazmat teams and decontamination. The location affects access and staging, but it’s the incident type that dictates the mix of units needed. The identity of the caller, the time since last response, or dispatch timing don’t tell you what specialized resources are required.