What should TERT leaders prioritize under pressure during an incident?

Timely communication with the team is essential for TERT leaders during high-pressure incidents. Effective communication ensures that all team members are aware of their roles, responsibilities, and the current status of the situation. It facilitates coordination and collaboration among team members, which is crucial for an effective response. When leaders communicate promptly, they can relay important information, adjust strategies based on real-time feedback, and maintain morale within the team.

In the context of an incident, when the environment is dynamic and potentially chaotic, prioritizing clear and concise communication helps in minimizing confusion, ensuring that everyone is aligned on the objectives and methods for moving forward. Furthermore, timely updates are critical in making informed decisions that impact the safety and effectiveness of the response efforts.

While personal safety is undeniably vital, effective communication is what allows teams to assess risks and prioritize safety collectively. Negotiating with external parties and gathering information—especially if unverified—can detract from the immediate focus of response and management that a TERT leader must maintain.