Immediately upon knowledge of serious fire in or about a mine, the operator shall report by the quickest available means to the chief of the division giving all information known to him. Based on the information, the chief shall take prompt action to go in person or dispatch qualified subordinates to the scene of the fire for consultation, and assist in the extinguishing of the fire and the protection of exposed persons. In event of difference of opinion as to measures required, the decision of the chief or his designated subordinate shall be final, but must be given to the operator in writing to have the force of an order.