In the event of a wildfire response involving air resources, what should the ISO do?

In a wildfire response where air resources are deployed, the Incident Safety Officer (ISO) has a crucial role in ensuring the safety of operations, particularly when it comes to aerial support. The correct action for the ISO in this situation is to request an Air Support Officer (ASO).

The ASO is specifically trained to coordinate air support efforts and manage aerial resources effectively. By involving an ASO, the ISO can ensure that there is a designated individual with the expertise to oversee flight operations. This includes proper communication with pilots, management of air traffic, and strategic planning for water drops and fire suppression efforts. The ASO can also closely monitor changes in the incident environment and make real-time adjustments to aerial operations to maximize safety and effectiveness.

In contrast, assigning a flight path or identifying locations for water drops is typically within the responsibilities of the ASO or the Incident Commander, who are more specialized in aerial coordination and operational planning. Flying with the crew, while it may provide firsthand observations, could compromise the ISO's ability to oversee the broader safety concerns on the ground, detracting from the primary mission of assessing and managing incident safety. Thus, the choice to request an ASO ensures that the ISO focuses on their primary responsibilities while leveraging the expertise of specialized