What role does the second person in an engine company typically cover?

In an engine company, the second person generally focuses on water supply. This role is critical because establishing a reliable water source is essential for effective firefighting operations. The second person ensures that the necessary connections to hydrants or other water supplies are made quickly and efficiently, facilitating a swift and adequate response to the incident.

This individual also monitors and maintains the pressure in the hoses, ensuring that the first person can effectively deliver water to combat the fire. By managing water supply, the second person helps sustain operations during a fire, which is pivotal for both firefighting effectiveness and firefighter safety.

The other roles mentioned, while important, do not primarily define the responsibilities typically assigned to this position within the engine company. Emergency medical response, fireground safety, and incident command are usually handled by other personnel or in specific operational contexts rather than being central to the second person's duties in the water supply role.