When managing resources, a company officer must:

Making the best possible use of available resources is essential for effective resource management within a fire department. This approach ensures that current resources—whether they be personnel, equipment, or financial—are utilized efficiently to achieve operational objectives. By maximizing the use of what's already on hand, a company officer can improve response times, enhance training effectiveness, and maintain safety standards, all while working within budgetary constraints.

This focus on optimal resource utilization involves assessing the needs of the team, the demands of the community, and the capabilities of existing assets. It promotes creativity and strategic thinking in how resources are deployed. For instance, a company officer might find ways to rotate equipment or staff shifts to increase efficiency without incurring additional costs.

While minimizing expenses is important, it should not come at the expense of operational effectiveness. Acquiring more resources can sometimes be necessary; however, it’s crucial to prioritize making existing resources work better before seeking additional funding. Delegating resource management, while useful, might lead to a lack of direct oversight and accountability, which can result in inefficiency. Thus, focusing on the effective use of current resources stands out as the most pragmatic and impactful approach for a company officer.