Preparing Your Incident Command Post: IT Checklist for Wildland Fires
Wildland fires demand rapid coordination, reliable communication, and real-time data sharing. Behind every successful wildfire response is a strong IT backbone supporting decision-makers and field teams.
The Incident Command Post (ICP) is the nerve center of wildfire management, where technology plays a critical role in coordinating operations. From establishing communication networks to ensuring data security, IT preparedness can mean the difference between seamless operations and dangerous communication failures.
This article provides a comprehensive IT checklist for Incident Command Posts during wildland fires. It covers every step of wildfire IT preparation, from pre-incident planning and hardware setup to cybersecurity and network management. Designed for fire chiefs and emergency planners, it serves as a practical guide to ensure your ICP is ready before the next wildfire season begins.
Why IT Preparedness Matters for Incident Command Posts
An Incident Command Post is the operational hub of wildfire response, managing everything from firefighting tactics and logistics to public safety communications. Within this command structure, technology serves as the foundation for coordination, tracking, and data-driven decision-making.
When IT systems fail, communication between field units, aerial support, and command can break down. Such disruptions can delay response times, cause resource misallocation, and compromise firefighter safety.
Pre-Incident IT Planning for Wildland Fire Response
Before deployment, fire departments and emergency planners must conduct comprehensive pre-incident tower maintenance . This preparation ensures the ICP can be quickly established with reliable power, network connectivity, and secure communication systems.
Key steps in pre-incident IT planning include:
1. Site Assessment:
Identify potential ICP locations and assess critical factors such as power sources, cellular and satellite signal strength, terrain accessibility, and environmental exposure.
2. Standards Alignment:
Ensure IT planning aligns with both NWCG and Incident Command System (ICS) standards. Compliance improves collaboration and guarantees your systems are compatible with those of partner agencies.
3. Connectivity Requirements:
Determine the bandwidth and network demands for various ICP functions—operations, logistics, communications, and planning. Each section may require separate devices or sub-networks.
4. Redundancy Planning:
Plan for backup power, internet, and hardware. This includes secondary routers, portable generators, and additional devices that can be deployed instantly if primary systems fail.
Once a full site assessment and IT plan are complete, your team can move on to building the ICP’s network and communication systems.
Core IT Infrastructure for an Incident Command Post
The IT infrastructure serves as the foundation of the Incident Command Post. Building a durable, high-performance system requires the right equipment, configuration, and redundancy planning.
Field-Grade Routers
Field-grade routers provide stable and secure connections under harsh conditions. During wildland fire operations, these routers maintain command communication even in remote or low-signal areas.
When selecting a router, prioritize the following features:
Temperature and weather tolerance
Dual SIM or multi-WAN capability for redundancy
Encrypted VPN compatibility
High throughput and traffic management options
Agencies in regions such as Oregon and Alaska often deploy industrial-grade routers that can operate in both mobile command vehicles and fixed posts.
Rugged Servers
Rugged servers handle data-intensive applications such as GIS mapping, resource tracking, and real-time incident updates.
Choose models with:
Solid-state drives for durability and speed
RAID configurations for redundancy
Shock and dust resistance
Remote management capability
These servers should be optimized for field deployment, ensuring continuous uptime even in unstable power conditions.
Switches and Network Hubs
Switches connect the ICP’s local devices, including laptops, printers, and communication terminals. Managed switches are recommended for their scalability and security features, enabling IT staff to isolate sensitive systems from public or field-access networks.
Power and Cooling Systems
Reliable power delivery is vital for uninterrupted IT operation.
Include:
Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) for temporary power continuity
Portable generators and surge protectors
Ventilation or cooling units to maintain safe equipment temperatures
This infrastructure forms the technical backbone of your ICP and allows communication systems to function effectively under pressure.
Building Reliable Communication and Network Systems
Communication is the most critical function of an ICP. Wildland firefighting involves hundreds of personnel and multiple agencies that must share real-time information. Establishing reliable communication and data channels ensures operational success.
WAN and LAN Design
Design both wide area networks (WAN) and local area networks (LAN) for effective coverage. The LAN connects devices within the ICP, while the WAN links the post to remote field crews and command headquarters.
Connectivity Solutions
Since wildfires often occur in remote or mountainous regions, diverse connectivity solutions are essential.
These may include:
Satellite internet for long-range, remote communication
Cellular LTE/5G routers for mobility
Microwave or mesh networks for localized communication in rugged terrain
Fire agencies in Hawaii and Alaska have successfully used mixed communication systems that combine satellite and terrestrial technologies for uninterrupted coverage.
Redundancy Planning
Plan for connectivity loss by implementing dual routers, backup ISPs, or satellite redundancy. Even brief internet interruptions can cause data syncing issues during critical response periods.
With a dependable communication setup in place, securing the network becomes the next priority.
Ensuring Cybersecurity and VPN Protection During Wildfires
Cybersecurity is a growing concern in emergency response environments. A wildfire ICP manages sensitive operational data, including personnel locations, incident mapping, and infrastructure information. Protecting this data is critical to maintaining both safety and confidentiality.
VPN Security for Wildfire Response
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts communications between field devices and the ICP. This ensures that sensitive data remains secure even when transmitted through public or satellite connections.
VPNs are now standard practice for wildfire IT prep across regions such as Oregon, Maui, and Alaska.
Firewalls and Access Control
A layered defense system prevents unauthorized access.
Recommended measures include:
Enterprise-grade firewalls with intrusion detection
Multi-factor authentication for all logins
User access controls that grant permissions based on job roles
Data Protection and Backup
Data redundancy ensures information remains recoverable if systems fail.
Set up:
Automated hourly backups
Off-site or cloud-based replication
Daily validation of backup integrity
Robust cybersecurity policies are essential to ensure mission continuity and protect sensitive communications.
Hardware and Devices for Field Operations
Field equipment must be rugged, reliable, and easy to deploy in unpredictable wildfire conditions.
Rugged Laptops and Tablets
Choose weatherproof and shock-resistant devices that can withstand outdoor exposure. Field computers must be compatible with GIS software, mapping applications, and secure networks.
Printers and Labeling Systems
Printers are used to produce maps, documents, and identification tags in real time. Ensure field printers are compatible with mobile networks and can operate under generator power.
Peripheral Equipment
Peripheral devices such as scanners, radios, and cameras extend the functionality of the IT system. Many agencies are integrating surveillance camera systems in Oregon and Hawaii to monitor entry points and maintain situational awareness around command posts.
Mounting and Storage
Proper organization prevents cable damage and equipment loss. Use secure mounting racks, cable organizers, and storage cases to maintain efficiency and mobility.
Software Applications and Data Tools
Reliable software enables better decision-making, resource allocation, and situational tracking during a wildfire response.
Incident Management Software
Incident management systems help track personnel, assign resources, and record operational data. Choosing a platform that aligns with ICS protocols ensures consistency across agencies.
GIS and Mapping Applications
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) provide live mapping for fire spread prediction and resource placement. Storing local map copies ensures continued access if network connectivity fails.
Communication Platforms
Integrating email, chat, and voice communication systems reduces confusion during operations. VoIP systems and radio-over-IP software are particularly effective for ICP environments.
These applications support the real-time decision-making necessary for successful wildfire response coordination.
Testing Training and System Validation
Testing and training are key components of IT readiness. All technology should be tested under real conditions before the surveillance camera Alaska.
Pre-Season IT Drills
Conduct mock setups of your Incident Command Post to test connectivity, power, and data flow. Ensure every component functions correctly under simulated stress.
Failure Simulations
Regularly test backup systems to prepare for outages. Simulate power loss, network disruptions, and VPN downtime. Verify that redundancies activate automatically.
Staff Training
Every team member, from IT specialists to command personnel, should be familiar with basic troubleshooting and system reboots. Cross-training ensures that operations continue even if key IT staff are unavailable.
Lessons from the Field – Real-World Wildfire IT Preparation
Past wildfire incidents have demonstrated the value of proactive IT planning.
A fire department in Oregon reduced setup time by pre-staging routers and servers configured for automatic IP assignment.
Teams in Alaska implemented network administration and security systems that allowed remote IT administrators to monitor multiple ICPs simultaneously.
Maui-based fire operations integrated outdoor surveillance systems to secure their ICP perimeters from unauthorized access.
Hawaii’s fire management divisions utilized local fiber splicing contractors to improve broadband capacity and reduce latency between field teams and command.
These real-world examples highlight how strong IT systems can improve communication, coordination, and operational safety.
Maintaining IT Systems During a Wildland Fire Incident
Once operations are underway, IT systems must be maintained continuously.
Key maintenance practices include:
Monitoring network bandwidth and latency
Performing regular inspections of routers, cables, and fiber splicing maui
Logging all system activities for post-incident analysis
Backing up critical data at scheduled intervals throughout the operation
Routine maintenance ensures the network remains reliable even during multi-day wildfire events.
Conclusion
A well-structured IT checklist is essential for any fire department preparing an Incident Command Post for wildland fires. Proper IT readiness involves detailed planning, durable hardware, secure networking, and continuous testing.
From network engineering and cybersecurity to surveillance and fiber splicing, every component contributes to the resilience of your command structure.
Fire chiefs and emergency planners in regions like Oregon, Alaska, Maui, and Hawaii can enhance operational reliability by investing in NWCG-compliant, field-tested IT solutions. By ensuring your ICP’s technology is rugged, secure, and properly maintained, your team can focus on what truly matters—protecting lives, property, and the environment.