How can an Incident Commander (IC) halt unnecessary radio traffic during an IWI?

The most effective way for an Incident Commander (IC) to halt unnecessary radio traffic during an incident with an immediate threat to life (IWI) is by using the phrase "Units stand by." This phrase serves as a clear and direct command that alerts all personnel to pause their communications, thus reducing radio congestion.

When the IC calls for "Units stand by," it indicates that critical information may need to be conveyed without interruption, or the IC may need to focus on key tactical decisions. This is especially important in high-stress situations where clarity and focus are vital for effective incident management.

Other methods, such as repeating commands, may not effectively manage the volume of traffic on the radio, and changing frequencies can create confusion if personnel are not aware of the new channel. Issuing a safety alert is also crucial for maintaining safety, but it does not specifically address the need to reduce unnecessary chatter on the radio, which can hamper communication efficiency during critical operations. Thus, using "Units stand by" is the most strategic approach for the IC to manage radio communications effectively during an incident.