Incident Command and Leadership Decision Making on the Fireground

By Eric J. Neal

In the high-stakes environment of the fireground, every second counts—and every decision can be the difference between chaos and control, injury and rescue, or even life and death. In Incident Command and Leadership Decision Making on the Fireground, Fire Chief Eric J. Neal delivers a comprehensive, experience-driven guide designed to shape confident incident commanders and empower fire service leaders with the tools to make critical decisions under pressure.

Drawing from decades of frontline experience, including roles in urban, suburban, and combination fire departments, Neal distills complex command principles into clear, actionable strategies. Whether managing a single-family structure fire, a mass-casualty incident, or a multi-agency response, this book provides real-world scenarios, decision-making frameworks, and leadership lessons tailored to today's ever-evolving fire service.

Inside, readers will discover:

• Proven incident command system (ICS) strategies and structures for a variety of fireground operations


• The psychology of decision-making under stress and how to lead with clarity during chaos


• Case studies and after-action insights that reinforce key learning points


• A step-by-step breakdown of size-up, resource allocation, tactical prioritization, and strategic forecasting


• Leadership techniques to foster trust, accountability, and cohesion among crews


• Tools for developing the next generation of fireground leaders through mentorship and command presence

Chief Neal's instructional voice—shaped by his tenure as a command officer, educator, and conference presenter—offers a unique blend of practical wisdom and leadership philosophy. His emphasis on humility, communication, and purpose-driven action transforms this book into more than a tactical manual—it's a leadership roadmap for those ready to command with confidence and serve with integrity.

Whether you're a new officer stepping into your first command role or a seasoned chief looking to refine your leadership edge, Incident Command and Leadership Decision Making on the Fireground is an essential resource for leading with precision when it matters most.