Communications Unit Leader

Responsibilities

The Communications Unit Leader (COML) is responsible for developing plans for the effective use of incident communications equipment and facilities; installing and testing of communications equipment; supervision of the Incident Communications Center (ICC); distribution of communications equipment to incident personnel; and the maintenance and repair of communications equipment.

Organization

Org chart coming soon

Checklist 0/31

Review common and leadership responsibilities.
Receive initial briefing from the Service Branch Director (SVBD) or Logistics Section Chief (LSC).
Determine unit personnel needs.
Supervise Communications Unit activities.
Support development and implementation of the Information Management Plan.
Prepare and implement the Forms 205/205a Communications Plan/List.
Obtain communications equipment and data management infrastructure.
Develop contingency communications.
Ensure Communication & Message Center is established if required.
Establish appropriate communications distribution/maintenance locations within base.
Ensure communications systems are installed, tested and maintained.
Ensure an equipment accountability system is established.
Ensure personal portable radio equipment from cache is distributed per Form 205 Communications Plan.
Establish and maintain the data management infrastructure to include hardware, software, and data to support information management.
Establish and maintain automatic data processing computer information technology (IT) services for all facilities when available.
Provide technical information as required on:
1. Adequacy of communications systems currently in operation.
2. Geographic limitation on communications systems.
3. Equipment capabilities/limitations.
4. Amount and types of equipment available.
5. Anticipated problems in the use of communications equipment.
Maintain records on all communications equipment as appropriate.
Monitor on-going communications support and process needs, participate in tactical planning process to determine communication needs.
Incorporate Satellite phones as necessary.
Maintain list of vendors that can provide communications equipment for emergency use.
Setup multiple printers, Install scanner(s), Request Government Emergency Telephone System (GETS) / Wireless Priority Service (WPS) as needed.
Ensure use of proper surge protectors.
Establish a schedule for periodic progress reports from section leaders and recovery sites.
Have runners available should all other means of communications fail or become disabled.
Recover equipment from units being demobilized.
Maintain Form 214a Individual Log and forward to Documentation Unit Leader (DOCL) for disposition.

Forms to Complete

Form 205 Comms Plan

Prepare Communications Plan

Form 214a Individual Log

Document events/activities

Meetings to Attend

Initial Response & AssessmentIncident Brief Form 201Initial Command MeetingTactics Meeting Planning Meeting Operations BriefingImplement New IAP & Assess Progress

Handbook Pages	195–196 (2 pages)
Part	B — Incident Management
Section	6.4 Communications Unit Leader (COML)
Type	role