What key information should be communicated to the dispatcher prior to departure?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of communicating critical operational details to the dispatcher before any departure. Informing the dispatcher about the units that are responding and the specific nature of the emergency is essential for several reasons.

First, knowing which units are en route allows the dispatcher to have an accurate view of resources available, which is vital for incident coordination and ensuring a timely response. This information also enables the dispatcher to prepare necessary backup or additional resources if required.

Additionally, understanding the nature of the emergency gives the dispatcher the context needed to relay important information to the responding units and to other agencies involved. For instance, if the nature of the call indicates a fire, medical emergency, or hazardous material situation, the dispatcher can provide tailored information that can improve safety and effectiveness during the response.

In contrast, while weather conditions and road types may be useful, they are secondary to knowing who is going and why they are going. Personal information about the driver is not pertinent to the immediate operational response and can detract from critical communication. Finally, solely focusing on the estimated time of arrival lacks necessary context and does not provide an overall understanding of the incident or the resources involved.