What is a reasonable guideline for initial company commitment per victims in multi-patient incidents?

The guideline of one company per five victims in multi-patient incidents is derived from the need for an effective and manageable response to multiple casualties. This ratio ensures that there are enough resources and personnel to adequately assess, triage, and provide care to each victim, while also maintaining the capacity to manage the incident as a whole.

In such scenarios, the complexity of the situation increases as the number of victims rises, requiring more organized efforts. With this guideline, it allows for a structured and systematic approach to incident management, which is crucial for ensuring that all victims receive timely attention based on their specific medical needs.

By using one company for every five victims, it also helps in reducing the risk of overwhelming the responders, ensuring that they can maintain their efficiency and effectiveness during the response. This balance between available manpower and victim needs is essential for optimal outcomes in emergency situations.