Incident Command System (ICS) & NIMS Review

Flashcards covering the development, structure, legal basis, benefits, key terms, and functional roles of the Incident Command System (ICS) and its integration within NIMS.

In what decade was the Incident Command System (ICS) originally developed?

The 1970s (specifically 1970).

What is the primary purpose of the Incident Command System (ICS)?

To provide a standardized approach to incident management for incidents of any size, including planned events.

How does ICS help when multiple jurisdictions or agencies are involved in an incident?

It establishes common processes and organizational structures so resources and information can flow smoothly among them.

Give one real-world example of ICS being used for a planned event mentioned in the notes.

A Joplin parade where roads are blocked and safety is coordinated a mile in advance.

ICS is a component of which broader national framework?

The National Incident Management System (NIMS).

List the three major components of NIMS.

1) Resource Management 2) Command and Coordination (including ICS) 3) Communications and Information Management.

Which federal act first required ICS for hazardous-materials incidents?

The Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA).

Which federal agency requires all workers who handle hazardous materials to use ICS?

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Which agency requires states to use ICS at hazardous-materials incidents?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Name two key benefits of using ICS.

Clarifies who is in charge and fosters cooperation between diverse agencies (also enables orderly planning, improves safety, and ensures efficient resource use).

What type of terminology should be used during an incident according to NIMS management characteristics?

Common terminology—no codes or confusing acronyms.

What does “modular organization” mean in ICS?

The incident commander builds the organization to fit the size and complexity of the incident, expanding or contracting as needed.

State the four core steps of Management by Objectives.

1) Establish measurable objectives 2) Identify strategies 3) Develop/issue assignments & protocols 4) Direct resources to accomplish the tasks.

What document (or verbal plan) answers the questions "What do we want to do?" and "Who is responsible?"

The Incident Action Plan (IAP).

For hazardous-materials incidents, what special requirement exists for the Incident Action Plan?

It must be written (not just verbal) by the Incident Commander.

What is the recommended manageable span-of-control ratio in ICS?

One supervisor to five subordinates (1:5), adjustable to incident needs.

Give three examples of incident facilities listed in the notes.

Emergency shelters, an incident base, staging areas, or camps (any three).

Define Comprehensive Resource Management.

The process of identifying requirements, ordering/acquiring, mobilizing, tracking, demobilizing resources, then reimbursing and restocking.

What is required before resources are deployed to an incident?

They must be requested or dispatched by appropriate authority (no self-dispatch).

Explain “Unified Command.”

A structure where multiple jurisdictions or agencies share incident command jointly, with no single commander.

What is the difference between Chain of Command and Unity of Command?

Chain of Command is the hierarchical line of authority; Unity of Command means each individual reports to only one designated supervisor.

What are the five primary ICS functional areas?

Command, Operations, Planning, Logistics, and Finance/Administration (Intelligence is a sixth when needed).

Which ICS function sets objectives, strategies, and overall priorities?

Command (led by the Incident Commander).

Which ICS section "conducts operations" to meet tactical objectives?

Operations Section.

Which section prepares and disseminates the Incident Action Plan and tracks resources?

Planning Section.

What is the Logistics Section chief responsible for?

Providing facilities, services, materials, and ensuring responder well-being (food, water, communications, transportation, etc.).

Which section monitors costs, contracts, and claims during an incident?

Finance/Administration Section.

Name the three typical Command Staff positions under the Incident Commander.

Public Information Officer (PIO), Safety Officer, and Liaison Officer.

What does the Public Information Officer (PIO) do?

Serves as the point of contact with the public and media, releasing incident-related information.

When may the Incident Commander appoint deputies?

When assistance is needed; deputies must be fully qualified to assume the IC role if required.

What is the purpose of an Emergency Operations Center (EOC)?

A (physical or virtual) facility where trained staff coordinate support and resources for incident sites.

What is a Joint Information Center (JIC)?

A center established to coordinate and synchronize all public information released about an incident.

Describe the role of Incident Coordination versus Incident Command.

Incident Command assigns tasks and resources at the scene; Incident Coordination analyzes information, sets priorities among incidents, and synchronizes public info and policy support.

Which General Staff section is usually created first when an incident begins to expand?

The Operations Section.

State two responsibilities of an Operations Section Chief.

Developing/implementing tactics and managing all tactical resources (also managing staging areas).

Why must a transfer of command include a briefing?

To pass all essential information ensuring continued safe and effective operations.