The Field Observer - is responsible for collecting situation information from personal observations at the incident and provides this information to the Situation Unit Leader (SUL).

The major responsibilities of the Field Observer are:

• Review Common Responsibilities.
  
  
• Determine:
  
  
  • Location of assignment.
    
    
  • Type of information required.
    
    
  • Priorities.
    
    
  • Time limits for completion.
    
    
  • Method of communication.
    
    
  • Method of transportation.
• Obtain a copy of the Incident Action Plan (IAP) for the Operational Period.
  
  
• Obtain necessary equipment and supplies.
  
  
• Perform Field Observer responsibilities to include but not limited to the following:
  
  
• Perimeters of incident.
  
  
•  Locations of hot spots.
  
  
• Unburned islands.
  
  
• Rates of spread.
  
  
• Weather conditions.
  
  
• Hazards including escape routes and safe areas.
  
  
• Progress of operations resources.
• Be prepared to identify all facility locations (e.g., Helispots, Division and Branch boundaries).
  
  
• Report information to the Situation Unit Leader (SUL) by established procedure.
  
  
• Report immediately any condition observed that may cause danger and a safety hazard to personnel.
  
  
• Gather intelligence that will lead to accurate predictions.
  
  
• Maintain Unit/Activity Log (ICS Form 214, 5 KB PDF^*).