What action should be taken if EMS personnel retreat during an incident?

In situations where EMS personnel retreat during an incident, the most appropriate action is to immediately notify county communications and the Incident Commander (IC). This communication is critical because it ensures that the retreat is officially recorded and understood within the larger context of the incident. By informing county communications and the IC, the entire emergency response team can reassess the situation, understand the reasons for the retreat, and make more informed decisions about how to proceed.

This step is essential for maintaining situational awareness, enabling appropriate resource allocation, and ensuring that everyone involved understands the shift in operational dynamics. It also helps to establish a command structure for discussing the next steps and plans for any subsequent actions, whether that means regrouping, waiting for more information, or potentially escalating the situation.

The other options, such as completing the mission without assistance or resuming normal operations, could place personnel at unnecessary risk and undermine coordinated efforts in a potentially hazardous environment. Waiting for further orders without notifying command can lead to confusion and delay in response efforts. Therefore, timely and effective communication with the IC is paramount in emergency management protocols when dealing with changing circumstances on the ground.