Basic incident command system for initial response.

incident commander authorities and responsibilities

-Has overall incident management responsibility delegated by the appropriate jurisdictional authority -Develops the incident objectives to guide the Incident Action Planning Process -Approves the Incident Action Plan and all requests pertaining to the ordering and releasing of incident resources

Operations Section: Staging Areas

-Staging Areas are set up at the incident where resources can wait for a tactical assignment. -All resources in the Staging Area are assigned and ready for deployment. Out-of-service resources are NOT located at the Staging Area.

The Incident Commander or Unified Command can place the Intelligence/Investigations Function in which of the following organizational locations? A. Operations Section B. Planning Section C. Command Staff D. Logistics Section

A, B & C.

Additional resources are reporting to the incident. Who is responsible for tracking the status of the resources? A.Liaison Officer Assistant B. Staging Manager C. Planning Section Resources Unit

C.

It's the beginning of an operational period. The Operations Section Chief is meeting with all tactical resources to present the plan for the next operational period to all tactical resources. A. staff level briefing B. field level briefing C. section level briefing

C.

ideal span of control ratio

The optimal span of control for incident management is one supervisor to five subordinates; however, the 1:5 ratio is only a guideline and effective incident management often calls for different ratios.

briefing elements...

task; what needs to be done. purpose; why it needs to be done. end state; how it should look when completed.

informal communication is NOT used for

-Formal requests for additional resources -Tasking work assignments

formal communication must be used when...

-Receiving and giving work assignments -Requesting support or additional resources -Reporting progress of assigned tasks

who is required to have knowledge of preparedness plans and agreements in a given jurisdiction?

incident commander, command, & general staff.

incident management characteristics

-Corrective action report/After-Action Review (AAR) -Debriefing -Post-incident critique -Mitigation plans

(True/False) In a major incident, personnel and equipment should be dispatched even without being requested.

False

important ICS tools

-Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) from the affected jurisdiction(s) -Agency policies and procedures manuals for responding agencies -Maps of the affected area

examples of when delegation of fire is not necessary.

A delegation of authority may not be required if the Incident Commander is acting within his or her existing authorities, such as; -An emergency manager may already have the authority to deploy response resources to a small flash flood. -A fire chief probably has the authority (as part of the job description) to serve as an Incident Commander at a structure fire.

The steps for establishing and implementing incident objectives include

Step 1: Understand agency policy and direction. Step 2: Assess incident situation. Step 3: Establish incident objectives. Step 4: Select appropriate strategy or strategies to achieve objectives. Step 5: Perform tactical direction. Step 6: Provide necessary follow-up.

leadership qualities and responsibilities

-Communicates by giving specific instructions and asking for feedback. -Supervises the scene of action. -Evaluates the effectiveness of the plan. -Understands and accepts the need to modify plans or instructions. -Ensures safe work practices. -Takes command of assigned resources. -Motivates with a "can do safely" attitude. -Demonstrates initiative by taking action.

when issued, the delegation of authority should include;

-Legal authorities and restrictions -Financial authorities and restrictions -Reporting requirements -Demographic issues -Political implications -Agency or jurisdictional priorities -Plan for public information management -Process for communications -Plan for ongoing incident evaluation

Operational Period Briefing: Agenda (Continued)

-Technical Specialists present updates on conditions affecting the response (weather, fire behavior, environmental factors). -The Safety Officer reviews specific risks to operational resources and the identified safety/mitigation measures. -Supervisors of specialized functions such as Intelligence/Investigations or Air Operations brief on their area (if activated). -The Incident Commander reiterates his or her operational concerns and directs resources to deploy. -The Planning Section Chief announces the next Planning -Meeting and Operational Period Briefing, then adjourns the meeting.

With the addition of the Staging Area, the Operations Section Chief has the following subordinate leaders reporting directly to him: Staging Area Manager, Division A Supervisor, Division B Supervisor, Division C Supervisor, Flood Control Group Supervisor, and Nursing Home Task Force Leader. After the river crests, the Operations Section will need to perform additional functions such as control the perimeter, perform search and rescue operations, and restore utilities. The Operations Section Chief should: A. Combine the evacuation resources into one large Division under the supervisor of a Leader. B. Assign a Deputy to assist in the management of tactical resources. C. Add Branches to allow for another level of supervision for the expanding resources.

C. In this scenario, one strategy would be to divide the Operations Section into Evacuation/Perimeter Control Branch, Emergency Services Branch, and Public Works Branch, each with Groups and Teams.

Using specific ICS position titles serves these important purposes

-Provides a common standard -Ensures qualified individuals fill positions -Ensures that requested personnel are qualified -Standardizes communication -Describes the responsibilities of the position

planning section units

-Resources Unit: Responsible for all check-in activity and for maintaining the status on all personnel and equipment resources assigned to the incident. -Situation Unit: Collects and processes information on the current situation, prepares situation displays and situation summaries, and develops maps and projections. -Demobilization Unit: On large, complex incidents, assists in ensuring that an orderly, safe, and cost-effective movement of personnel is made when they are no longer required at the incident. -Documentation Unit: Prepares the Incident Action Plan, maintains all incident-related documentation, and provides duplication services.

Effective Meetings and Briefings

-An essential element to good supervision and incident management -Intended to pass along vital information required in the completion of incident response actions

communications responsibilities of leaders

-Brief others as needed -Debrief their actions -Communicate hazards to others -Acknowledge messages -Ask if they do not know

Approximately 95% of all incidents are small responses that include...

-Command: Incident Commander and other Command Staff -Single Resource: An individual, a piece of equipment and its personnel complement, or an established crew or team of individuals with an identified work supervisor that can be used on an incident

Examples of informal communication

The Communications Unit Leader may directly contact the Resources Unit Leader to determine the number of persons requiring communications devices. The Cost Unit Leader may directly discuss and share information on alternative strategies with the Planning Section Chief.

Incident Action Planning Process

The Incident Action Planning Process defines the progression of meetings and briefings utilized to develop the IAP that is used for the Operational Period Briefing. In addition to these IAP related meetings, there will also be other meetings and briefings within the ICS organization to include section-level meetings and briefings, situation update briefings, and transfer of command briefings.

command staff reminder;

-liaison officer -public informations officer -safety officer.

A supervisor within the Logistics Section is meeting with personnel to clarify tasks and scope of the work as well as define the reporting schedule, subordinate responsibilities and delegated authority, and the supervisor's expectations. A. staff level briefing B. field level briefing C. section level briefing

A

agency representative

An Agency Representative is an individual assigned to an incident from an assisting or cooperating agency. The Agency Representative is delegated authority to make decisions on matters affecting that agency's participation at the incident.

communications and information management in regards to NIMS

Communications and Information Management describes systems and methods that help to ensure that incident personnel and other decision makers have the means and information they need to make and communicate decisions.

Air Operations Branch

Some incidents may require the use of aviation resources to provide tactical or logistical support. On smaller incidents, aviation resources will be limited in number and will report directly to the Incident Commander or to the Operations Section Chief. On larger incidents, it may be desirable to activate a separate Air Operations Branch to coordinate the use of aviation resources. The Air Operations Branch will then report directly to the Operations Section Chief. The Air Operations Branch Director can establish two functional groups. The Air Tactical Group coordinates all airborne activity. The Air Support Group provides all incident ground-based support to aviation resources.

An ___________ is an individual assigned to an incident from an assisting or cooperating agency.

agency representative

Presidential Policy Directive 8 (PPD-8), National Preparedness

describes the Nation's approach to preparedness--one that involves the whole community, including individuals, businesses, community- and faith-based organizations, schools, tribes, and all levels of government (Federal, State, local, tribal and territorial). Click on this link to view PPD-8.

HSPD-8, National Preparedness

directed DHS to lead a national initiative to develop a National Preparedness System—a common, unified approach to "strengthen the preparedness of the United States to prevent and respond to threatened or actual domestic terrorist attacks, major disasters, and other emergencies." Click on this link to view HSPD-8.

(True/False) Accountability means that incident personnel adhere to check-in/check-out, incident action planning, unity of command, resource tracking, and other principles.

True.

ICS forms & things to remember

ICS Forms provide a method of recording and communicating key incident-specific information in a format that is simple, consistent, and supports interoperability. When using each ICS Form, you should ensure that you understand the following about each form: Purpose — What function does the form perform? Preparation — Who is responsible for preparing the form? Distribution — Who needs to receive this information?

informal communication

Information concerning the incident or event being passed horizontally or vertically within the organization without restriction.

NIMS Management characteristics recap

-Common Terminology -Modular Organization -Management by Objectives -Incident Action Planning -Manageable Span of Control -Incident Facilities and Locations -Comprehensive Resource Management -Integrated Communications -Establishment and Transfer of Command -Unified Command -Chain of Command and Unity of Command -Accountability -Dispatch/Deployment -Information and Intelligence Management

Briefing Topics Checklist

-Current Situation and Objectives -Safety Issues and Emergency Procedures -Work Tasks -Facilities and Work Areas -Communications Protocols -Supervisory/Performance Expectations -Process for Acquiring Resources, Supplies, and Equipment -Work Schedules -Questions or Concerns

For full effectiveness, incident objectives must be...

-Specific and state what's to be accomplished -Measurable and include a standard and timeframe -Attainable and reasonable -In accordance with the Incident Commander's authorities -Evaluated to determine effectiveness of strategies and tactics

3. ___________refers to the orderly line of authority within the ranks of the incident management organization. A .chain of command B. unified command C. unity of command

A, Chain of Command refers to the orderly line of authority within the ranks of the incident management organization.

A decision is made to add a Logistics Section. Select the responsibility that would be assigned to the Logistics Section. A. Ensuring that responders can communicate with one another. B. Providing medical care of injured flood victims. C. Establishing mass care facilities for displaced residents.

A.

Before establishing the Planning Section, the Incident Commander did not have sufficient resources to develop a written Incident Action Plan. What should the Incident Commander do? A. Forgo the incident planning processing until a formal written plan can be developed and disseminated. B. Use the Incident Briefing, ICS Form 201, as the initial Incident Action Plan (IAP) until a Planning Section has been established. C. Assign the Public Information Officer the task of documenting and circulating the incident objectives, strategies, and tactics.

B

Which Section is responsible for all support requirements needed to facilitate effective and efficient incident management, including ordering resources from off-incident locations? A. Operations Section B. Finance/Administration Section C. Logistics Section

C, The Logistics Section is responsible for all support requirements needed to facilitate effective and efficient incident management, including ordering resources from off-incident locations.

1. ______________ means that each individual has a designated supervisor to whom they report to at the scene of the incident. A .chain of command B. unified command C. unity of command

C, Unity of Command means that each individual has a designated supervisor to whom he or she reports at the scene of the incident.

Who is responsible for monitoring incident operations and advising the Incident Commander on all matters relating to operational safety, including the health and safety of emergency responder personnel? A. Operations Section Chief B. Medical Unit Leader C. Safety Officer

C, he Safety Officer is responsible for monitoring incident operations and advising the Incident Commander on all matters relating to operational safety, including the health and safety of emergency responder personnel.

Select the TRUE statement from below: A. Each time an incident is managed using ICS, it is necessary to have a written delegation of authority. B. An Incident Commander's scope of authority must be stated in existing laws. C. The granting official is relieved of the ultimate responsibility for the incident after delegating authority. D. A delegation of authority is needed when an incident scope is complex or beyond existing authorities.

D, A delegation of authority is needed when an incident scope is complex or beyond existing authorities.

Logistics section purpose and responsibilities

Early recognition of the need for a Logistics Section can reduce time and money spent on an incident. The Logistics Section is responsible for all support requirements, including: -Communications -Medical support to incident personnel -Food for incident personnel -Supplies, facilities, and ground support

establishing ICS structure on-scene

-Public Information Officer (PIO)interfaces with the public, media, and others needing incident information. -Safety Officer monitors incident operations and advises the Incident Command on matters relating to health and safety. -Liaison Officer serves as the Incident Command's point of contact for organizations not included in the Unified Command. -Operations Section plans and performs tactical activities to achieve the Incident Objectives established by the Incident Command. -Planning Section personnel collect, evaluate, and disseminate incident information to the IC/UC and other incident personnel. -Logistics Section personnel are responsible for providing services and support for the incident. -IC/UC establishes a Finance/Administration Sectionwhen the incident management activities require on-scene or incident-specific finance and administrative support services.

One Type I ambulance and crew complement. A. Single Resource B. Task Force C. Strike Team

A, A Single Resource is an individual, a piece of equipment and its personnel complement, or a crew or team of individuals with an identified work supervisor that can be used on an incident.

Ordering a canine team is an example of a resource ______. A. Kind B. Type

A, Ordering a canine team is an example of a resource kind. Because different types of teams have different capabilities, it would be best to specify both the kind and type of resource needed.

Additional Resource Terminology

-A TASK FORCE is a combination of mixed resources with common communications operating under the direct supervision of a Task Force Leader. -A STRIKE TEAM/RESOURCE TEAM is a set number of resources of the same kind and type with common communications operating under the direct supervision of a Strike Team Leader. A Strike Team may also be referred to as a Resource Team by law enforcement. -A SINGLE RESOURCE is an individual, a piece of equipment and its personnel complement, or a crew or team of individuals with an identified work supervisor that can be used on an incident.

When is a transfer of command necessary?

-A jurisdiction or agency is legally required to take command -Change of command is necessary for effectiveness or efficiency Incident complexity changes -There is a need to relieve personnel on incidents of extended duration -Personal emergencies arise (e.g., Incident Commander has a family emergency) -The Agency Administrator or Jurisdictional Executive directs a change in command

Advantages of using Unified Command include...

-A single set of objectives guides incident response. -A collective approach is used to develop strategies to achieve incident objectives. -Information flow and coordination are improved between all involved in the incident. -All agencies have an understanding of joint priorities and restrictions. -No agency's legal authorities will be compromised or neglected. -Agencies' efforts are optimized as they perform their respective assignments under a single Incident Action Plan.

Resource Typing

-Capability: The Core Capability for which a resource is most useful. -Category: The function for which a resource is most useful. -Kind: A description of what a resource is (personnel, teams, facilities, equipment or supplies). -Type: The resource's minimum capability to perform its function. The level of capability is based on size, power and capacity (for equipment), or experience and qualifications (for personnel or teams).

Activity: Complexity Analysis Factors

-Community and responder safety -Impacts to life, property, and the economy -Potential hazardous materials -Weather and other environmental influences -Likelihood of cascading events -Potential crime scene (including terrorism) -Political sensitivity, external influences, and media relations -Area involved, jurisdictional boundaries -Availability of resources

operations section responsibilities and duties

-Directs and coordinates all incident tactical operations Is typically one of the first organizations to be assigned to the incident -Expands from the bottom up -Has the most incident resources -May have Staging Areas and special organizations

Management by objectives;

-Establishing overarching objectives. -Developing and issuing assignments, plans, procedures, and protocols. -Establishing specific, measurable objectives for various incident management functional activities. -Directing efforts to attain them, in support of defined strategic objectives. -Documenting results to measure performance and facilitate corrective action.

common preparedness plans include;

-Federal, State, or local Emergency Operations Plans (EOPs) -Standard operating guidelines (SOGs) - a standard indication or outline of policy -Standard operating procedures (SOPs) - a set of step-by-step instructions compiled by an organization to help workers carry out complex operations -Jurisdictional or agency policies

where is the incident commanders scope of authority derived from?

-From existing laws, agency policies, and procedures, and/or -Through a delegation of authority from the agency administrator or elected official.

Delegation of Authority

-Grants authority to carry out specific functions Is issued by the chief elected official, chief executive officer, or agency administrator in writing or verbally -Allows the Incident Commander to assume command -Does NOT relieve the granting authority of the ultimate responsibility for the incident

plans may include information about...

-Hazards and risks in the area -Resources in the area -Other formal agreements and plans -Contact information for agency administrators and response personnel -Other pertinent information

Analyzing Incident Complexity

-Identify resource requirements -Determine if the existing management structure is appropriate

Resource Management

-Identifying -Requirements -Ordering and -Acquiring -Mobilizing -Tracking and Reporting -Demobilizing -Reimbursing and Restocking

A delegation of authority is needed if...

-If the incident is outside the Incident Commander's jurisdiction -When the incident scope is complex or beyond existing authorities -If required by law or procedures

objectives, strategies, & tactics;

-Incident objectives state what will be accomplished. -Strategies establish the general plan or direction for accomplishing the incident objectives. -Tactics specify how the strategies will be executed.

ICS Form 201, Incident Briefing

-Incident situation (map, significant events) Incident objectives -Summary of current actions -Status of resources assigned or ordered for the incident or event

ICS; incident command system...

-Is a standardized management tool for meeting the demands of small or large emergency or nonemergency situations -Represents "best practices" and has become the standard for emergency management across the country -May be used for planned events, natural disasters, and acts of terrorism -Is a part of the National Incident Management System (NIMS)

Operational Period Briefing

-Is conducted at the beginning of each operational period. -Presents the Incident Action Plan for the upcoming period to supervisory personnel within the Operations Section. -Should be concise.

Finance/Administration Section

-Is established when incident management activities require finance and other administrative support services. -Handles claims related to property damage, injuries, or fatalities at the incident.

operations section chief responsibilities

-Is responsible to the Incident Commander for the direct management of all incident-related operational activities -Establishes tactical objectives for each operational period -Has direct involvement in the preparation of the Incident Action Plan

ICS organization recap

-Is typically structured to facilitate activities in five major functional areas: Command, Operations, Planning, Logistics, and Finance/Administration -Is adaptable to any emergency or incident to which domestic incident management agencies would be expected to respond -Has a scalable organizational structure that is based on the size and complexity of the incident

planning section responsibilities.

-Maintaining resource status -Maintaining and displaying situation status -Preparing the Incident Action Plan (IAP) -Developing alternative strategies -Providing documentation services -Preparing the Demobilization Plan -Providing a primary location for Technical Specialists assigned to an incident

what is to be determined by first responders upon arrival of an event?

-Nature and magnitude of the incident -Hazards and safety concerns -Hazards facing response personnel and the public -Evacuation and warnings -Injuries and casualties -Need to secure and isolate the area -Initial priorities and immediate resource requirements -Location of Incident Command Post and Staging Area -Entrance and exit routes for responders

ICS Expansion and Contraction

-Only functions and positions that are necessary to achieve incident objectives are filled. -Each activated element must have a person in charge. -An effective span of control must be maintained.

Examples of Predicting Incident Workload

-Operations Section: The workload on Operations is immediate and often massive. On a rapidly escalating incident, the Operations Section Chief must determine appropriate tactics; organize, assign, and supervise resources; and at the same time participate in the planning process. -Planning Section: The Resources and Situation Units will be very busy in the initial phases of the incident. In the later stages, the workload of the Documentation and Demobilization Units will increase. -Logistics Section: The Supply and Communications Units will be very active in the initial and final stages of the incident.

three primary reasons to designate a Deputy Incident Commander are to...

-Perform specific tasks as requested by the Incident Commander. -Perform the incident command function in a relief capacity (e.g., to take over for the next operational period). In this case, the Deputy will assume the primary role. -Represent an Assisting Agency that may share jurisdiction or have jurisdiction in the future.

Scenario: Ongoing flooding is occurring in a tri-State area. Local and regional resources are overwhelmed, and there are numerous missing and injured persons. Additional rain and wind is forecasted for the tri-State area. The President has declared all counties in the affected region as disaster areas under the Stafford Act. A. Type 5 Incident B. Type 4 Incident C. Type 3 Incident D. Type 2 Incident E. Type 1 Incident

E, This incident is a Type 1 Incident. The President has declared all counties in the affected region as disaster areas under the Stafford Act.

(True/False) A formal transfer of command is unnecessary when the Deputy Incident Commander is relieving the Incident Commander for an extended rest period.

False, Even when the Deputy Incident Commander assumes command, there must be a transfer of command.

(True/False) ICS positions may one combined in order to save on staffing or achieve a higher level of efficiency.

False, ICS positions should NOT be combined to gain staffing efficiency. Rather than combining positions, you may assign the same individual to supervise multiple units.

(True/False) ICS encourages the use of unique position titles in order to better meet the specific incident needs.

False, It is important to use standardized ICS position titles. Creating new titles may be unrecognizable to assisting or cooperating personnel and may cause confusion.

(True/False) The arrival of a more qualified person means that a change in incident command must occur.

False, Upon arriving at an incident the higher ranking person will either assume command, maintain command as is, or reassign command to a third party.

Incident management teams, (IMT's)

IMTs are rostered groups of ICS-qualified personnel consisting of an Incident Commander, other incident leadership, and personnel qualified for other key ICS positions. An IMT may be used to respond to an incident. IMTs include Command and General Staff members.

Numerical Incident Typing: Overview

Incidents, like resources, may be categorized into five types based on complexity. Type 5 incidents are the least complex and Type 1 the most complex. Incident typing may be used to:

Course structure/ key points

Lesson 1: Course Overview Lesson 2: Incident Command and Unified Command Lesson 3: Delegation of Authority and Management by Objectives Lesson 4: Functional Areas and Positions Lesson 5: Incident Briefings and Meetings Lesson 6: Organizational Flexibility Lesson 7: Transfer of Command Lesson 8: Application Activity Lesson 9: Course Summary

Incident typing is used to...

Make decisions about resource requirements. Order Incident Management Teams (IMTs). An IMT is made up of the Command and General Staff members in an ICS organization.

"The next Operational Period Briefing is scheduled for today at 1400. Right after this briefing, we will have a quick Planning Meeting. At the next Operational Period Briefing, I will distribute a written Incident Action Plan. Any questions? If not, we're adjourned." Who would present this information during the Operational Period Briefing? A. Planning Section Chief B. Operations Branch Director C. Agency Representative

A, The Planning Section Chief facilitates the briefing. The Planning Section Chief: -Reviews the agenda at the beginning of the briefing. -Announces the next Planning Meeting and Operational Period Briefing at the end of the briefing.

A three-car accident has occurred in a small residential area. Two of the drivers and several passengers have sustained minor injuries. The response will be completed within a single operational period. A. Type 5 Incident B. Type 4 Incident C. Type 3 Incident D. Type 2 Incident E. Type 1 Incident

A, This incident is a Type 5 Incident. The incident is contained within the first operational period, and involves only the Incident Commander and a small number of single resources.

Which Section would perform cost analysis and contracting services? A. Finance/Administration Section B. Planning Section C. Logistics Section

A, the Finance/Administration Section would perform cost analysis and contracting services. Not all incidents will require a separate Finance/Administration Section. In cases that require only one specific function (e.g., cost analysis), this service may be provided by a Technical Specialist in the Planning Section.

Heavy rains are threatening to cause a dam break. One incident objective and its strategy and tactics are as follows: Objective: Decrease the probability of flooding by reducing the reservoir level to 35 feet by 0800 tomorrow. Strategy: Pump water from reservoir. Tactics: _____________________________ A. Use truck-mounted pumps working from the road into spillway, and portable pumps on the east side discharging into Murky Creek. B. Inform the community of the potential risks and evacuate the downstream residents who are closest to the dam.

A, this is the best suited tactic for the given objectives.

One Type III Helicopter, one Urban Search & Rescue Team, and one Emergency Medical Technician with a leader. A. Single Resource B. Task Force C. Strike Team

B, A Task Force is a combination of mixed resources with common communications operating under the direct supervision of a Task Force Leader.

Ordering a bus with seating for more than 40 adults is an example of a resource __________. A. Kind B. Type

B, Ordering a bus with seating for more than 40 is an example of a resource type.

Who is the point of contact for representatives of other governmental agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and/or private entities? A. Public Information Officer B. Liaison Officer C. Safety Officer

B, The Liaison Officer is the point of contact for representatives of other governmental agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and/or private entities.

"First, a brief overview of our incident. It is 1200 hours, and the National Weather Service has just informed the County Emergency Management office that the flooding is expected to crest at 1800 today. The Command Post has been established in the parking lot at the Fire Station in the Tactical Mobile Command Vehicle. Divisions A, B, and C are assigned to alert and warning in the projected inundation zone; estimate completion by 1330." Who would present this information during the Operational Period Briefing? A. Public Information Officer B. Operations Section Chief C. Liaison Officer

B, The Operations Section Chief provides current assessment and accomplishments. The on-coming Operations Section Chief covers the work assignments and staffing of Divisions and Groups for the upcoming operational period.

Which Section collects, evaluates, and disseminates incident situation information and intelligence? A. Operations Section B. Planning Section C. Logistics Section

B, The Planning Section collects, evaluates, and disseminates incident situation information and intelligence. This Section also prepares status reports, displays situation information, maintains status of resources assigned to the incident, and develops and documents the Incident Action Plan (IAP).

2. _______________ allows agencies with different legal, geographic, and functional authorities and responsibilities to work together effectively without affecting individual agency authority, responsibility, or accountability. A .chain of command B. unified command C. unity of command

B, Unified Command allows agencies with different legal, geographic, and functional authorities and responsibilities to work together effectively without affecting individual agency authority, responsibility, or accountability.

Scenario: A cargo jet has crashed with injuries onboard and on the ground. Additionally, possible hazardous materials are aboard the jet. State and local resources are managing the incident. All Command positions are filled and the Operations and Planning Sections have been activated. A. Type 5 Incident B. Type 4 Incident C. Type 3 Incident D. Type 2 Incident E. Type 1 Incident

D, This incident is a Type 2 Incident. All Command positions are filled, as well as some Sections activated. The incident also requires regional (both State and local) resources to safely and effectively manage operations.

Transfer of Command defined

Transfer of command is the process of moving the responsibility for incident command from one Incident Commander to another.

(True/False)A Resources Unit may be activated without activating the Planning Section Chief.

True, An important concept is that many organizational elements may be activated in various Sections without activating the Section Chief.

(True/False) An ICS organizational structure should include only the functions and positions needed to achieve the incident objectives.

True, Many incidents will never require the activation of the entire Command or General Staff or entire list of organizational elements within each Section. The decision to activate an element (Section, Branch, Unit, Division, or Group) must be based on incident objectives and resource needs

(True/False) The effective time and date of the transfer should be communicated to all personnel who need to know, both at the scene and elsewhere.

True, One of the main features of ICS is a procedure to transfer command with minimal disruption to the incident.

(True/False) The transfer should take place face-to-face and include a complete briefing.

True, Whenever possible the transfer should take place face-to-face and should include a complete briefing.

(True/False) An Incident Action Plan is an oral or written plan containing objectives that address tactics and support activities for the planned operational period.

True.

IMT types

Type 5: Local Village and Township Level Type 4: City, County, or Fire District Level Type 3: State, Territory, Tribal, or Metropolitan Area Level Type 2: National and State Level Type 1: National and State Level (Type 1 Incident)

Unity of command means...

each individual involved in incident operations will be assigned - and will report - to only one supervisor.

HSPD-5, Management of Domestic Incidents

identified steps for improved coordination in response to incidents. It required the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to coordinate with other Federal departments and agencies and State, local, and tribal governments to establish a National Response Framework (NRF) and a National Incident Management System (NIMS).

A More Qualified Person Arrives

The arrival of a more qualified person does NOT necessarily mean a change in incident command. The more qualified individual may: -Assume command according to agency guidelines -Maintain command as it is and monitor command activity and effectiveness -Request a more qualified Incident Commander from the agency with a higher level of jurisdictional responsibility

resource management in regards to NIMS

Resource Management describes standard mechanisms to systematically manage resources, including personnel, equipment, supplies, teams, and facilities, both before and during incidents in order to allow organizations to more effectively share resources when needed.

you have been asked to assist Emerald City in its response to increasing flooding. The National Weather Service (NWS) reports it has been raining heavily for the past 7 days, averaging 1.3 inches of rain each 24-hour period. The areas of concerns are as follows: The Rapid River, which runs north and south through Emerald City, is experiencing slow-rise flooding. The flooding is being aggravated by debris catching on the low bridge downstream from lower Lake Emerald. Located near the bridge is the Lake Emerald Independent Living Complex, which includes a skilled nursing facility. Residents are being asked to evacuate their homes in anticipation of the rising floodwaters. It is 1200 hours, and the NWS has just informed the County Emergency Management office that the flooding is expected to crest at 1800 today. It is expected that this flood crest will cause flooding as indicated on the projected floodplain map. A. Divide the Operations Section into three Divisions, each assigned to a different geographical area to evacuate. B. Divide the Operations Section into three Groups, each assigned to a different geographical area to evacuate. C. Divide the Operations Section into seven Task Forces, each assigned to a different geographical area to evacuate.

A, In an expanding incident, the Operations Section can be organized in many different ways. In this scenario, the best organizational strategy from those presented would be to divide the Operations Section into three Divisions, each assigned to a different geographical area to evacuate.

Who handles media and public inquiries, emergency public information and warnings, rumor monitoring and response, and media monitoring, and coordinates the dissemination of information in an accurate and timely manner? A. Public Information Officer B. Planning Section Officer C. Safety Officer

A, The Public Information Officer handles media and public inquiries, emergency public information and warnings, rumor monitoring and response, and media monitoring, and coordinates the dissemination of information in an accurate and timely manner.

A Task Force Leader is meeting with team members at a work site to discuss tactics and safety issues. A. staff level briefing B. field level briefing C. section level briefing

B

On July 18, 2001, a train carrying hazardous chemicals derailed and caught fire in a downtown Baltimore tunnel, causing a near shutdown of the city and burning so hot that firefighters couldn't reach the flames for 8 hours. At one point, all major highways into the city were blocked off, a Baltimore Orioles game at nearby Camden Yards was canceled, and the Inner Harbor was closed to boat traffic. A water-main break near the tunnel added to the chaos, causing the collapse of part of a major thoroughfare and power outages. Select your strategy: A. Given the criticality of public information, the Incident Commander should not delegate the media and liaison functions. B. Given that this is a Hazardous Materials Accident, assign the Safety Officer to work in the Operations Section. C. Given the magnitude of this incident, assign all Command Staff immediately to support the Incident Commander.

C

command and coordination in regards to NIMS

Command and Coordination describes leadership roles, processes, and recommended organizational structures for incident management at the operational and incident support levels and explains how these structures interact to manage incidents effectively and efficiently.

planning section personnel

The Planning Section will have a Planning Section Chief. The Planning Section Chief may have a Deputy.

An agency or organization providing personnel, services, or other resources to the agency with direct responsibility for incident management is called a(n);

assisting agency

logistics service branch

-The Communications Unit is responsible for developing plans for the effective use of incident communications equipment and facilities, installing and testing of communications equipment, supervision of the Incident Communications Center, distribution of communications equipment to incident personnel, and maintenance and repair of communications equipment. -The Medical Unit is responsible for the development of the Medical Plan, obtaining medical aid and transportation for injured and ill incident personnel, and preparation of reports and records. -The Food Unit is responsible for supplying the food needs for responder personnel for the entire incident, including all remote locations (e.g., Camps, Staging Areas), as well as providing food for personnel unable to leave tactical field assignments.

Mutual aid agreements might include some of the following topics

-Reimbursement: Mutual aid services are either paid or unpaid (e.g., based on providing reciprocal services). Some mutual aid agreements specify reimbursement parameters. Recognition of Licensure and Certification: Guidelines to ensure recognition of licensures across geopolitical boundaries. -Procedures for Mobilization (Request, Dispatch, and Response): Specific procedures for parties to request and dispatch resources through mutual aid. -Protocols for Voice and Data Interoperability: Protocols that specify how different communications and IT systems share information. -Protocols for Resource Management: Standard templates for packaging resources based on NIMS resource typing definitions and/or local inventory systems

type 4 incident characteristics

-Resources: Command Staff and General Staff functions are activated (only if needed). Several single resources are required to mitigate the incident. -Time Span: Limited to one operational period in the control phase. No written Incident Action Plan is required for non-HazMat incidents. A documented operational briefing is completed.

type 1 incident characteristics

-Resources: National resources are required to safely and effectively manage the operations. All Command and General Staff positions are activated, and Branches need to be established. Operations personnel often exceed 500 per operational period and total personnel will usually exceed 1,000. There is a high impact on the local jurisdiction, requiring additional staff for office administrative and support functions. The incident may result in a disaster declaration. -Time Span: The incident is expected to go into multiple operational periods. A written Incident Action Plan is required for each operational period.

type 5 incident characteristics

-Resources: One or two single resources with up to six personnel. Command and General Staff positions (other than the Incident Commander) are not activated. -Time Span: Incident is contained within the first operational period and often within a few hours after resources arrive on scene. No written Incident Action Plan is required.

type 2 incident characteristics

-Resources: Regional and/or national resources are required to safely and effectively manage the operations. Most or all Command and General Staff positions are filled. Operations personnel typically do not exceed 200 per operational period and the total does not exceed 500. The agency administrator/official is responsible for the incident complexity analysis, agency administrator briefings, and written delegation of authority. -Time Span: The incident is expected to go into multiple operational periods. A written Incident Action Plan is required for each operational period.

type 3 incident characteristics

-Resources: When capabilities exceed initial response, the appropriate ICS positions should be added to match the complexity of the incident. Some or all of the Command and General Staff positions may be activated, as well as Division or Group Supervisor and/or Unit Leader level positions. An Incident Management Team (IMT) or incident command organization manages initial action incidents with a significant number of resources, and an extended response incident until containment/control is achieved. -Time Span: The incident may extend into multiple operational periods and a written Incident Action Plan may be required for each operational period.

What should be included in the transfer of command briefing?

-Situation status -Incident objectives and priorities -Current organization -Resource assignments -Resources ordered and en route -Incident facilities -Incident communications plan -Incident prognosis, concerns, and other issues -Introduction of Command and General Staff members

Modular Organization

-Size and complexity of the incident -Specifics of the hazard environment created by the incident -Incident planning process and incident objectives

3 Levels of Briefings

-Staff-level briefings are delivered to resources assigned to nonoperational and support tasks at the Incident Command Post or Base. -Field-level briefings are delivered to individual resources or crews who are assigned to operational tasks and/or work at or near the incident site. -Section-level briefings are delivered to an entire Section and include the Operational Period Briefing.

Transfer of command should...

-Take place face-to-face -Include a complete briefing that captures essential information for continuing safe and effective operations

Operational Period Briefing: Agenda

-The Planning Section Chief reviews the agenda and facilitates the briefing. -The Incident Commander or Planning Section Chief presents incident objectives or confirms existing objectives. -The Planning Section (Situation Unit Leader) provides information on the current situation. -The current Operations Section Chief provides current assessment and accomplishments. -The on-coming Operations Section Chief covers the work assignments and staffing of Divisions and Groups for the upcoming operational period. -The Logistics Section Chief provides updates on transportation, communications, and supplies. -The Finance/Administration Section Chief provides any fiscal updates. -The Public Information Officer provides information on public information issues. -The Liaison Officer briefs any interagency information.

logistics support branch

-The Supply Unit is responsible for ordering personnel, equipment, and supplies; receiving and storing all supplies for the incident; maintaining an inventory of supplies; and servicing nonexpendable supplies and equipment. -The Facilities Unit is responsible for setting up, maintaining, and demobilizing all facilities used in support of incident operations. Facilities Unit staff set up the Incident Command Post (ICP), Incident Base, and camps (including trailers or other forms of shelter in and around the incident area), ensure the maintenance of those facilities, and provide law enforcement/security services needed for incident support. -The Ground Support Unit is responsible for supporting out-of-service resources; transporting personnel, supplies, food, and equipment; fueling, service, maintenance, and repair of vehicles and other ground support equipment; and implementing the Traffic Plan for the incident.

Finance/Administration units

-The Time Unit is responsible for equipment and personnel time recording. -The Procurement Unit is responsible for administering all financial matters pertaining to vendor contracts, leases, and fiscal agreements. -The Compensation/Claims Unit is responsible for financial concerns resulting from property damage, injuries, or fatalities at the incident. -The Cost Unit is responsible for tracking costs, analyzing cost data, making cost estimates, and recommending cost-saving measures.

Span of control can change based on...

-Type of incident -Nature of the task -Existing hazards and safety factors -Distances between personnel and resources

factors that may influence span of control

-Type of incident -Nature of the task -Hazards and safety factors -Experience of the supervisor and subordinates -Communication access between the subordinates and the supervisor

An Incident Action Plan (IAP) covers an operational period and includes

-What must be done -Who is responsible -How information will be communicated -What should be done if someone is injured

event objectives are established based on the following priorities;

1. First Priority: Life Safety 2. Second Priority: Incident Stabilization 3. Third Priority: Property Preservation

Examples of size-up protocols for first response.

1. Size-up the nature and magnitude of the incident. 2. Determine the hazards and safety concerns. 3. Determine Initial Priorities and immediate Resource Requirements. 4. Determine the location of the Incident Command Post and Staging Area. 5. Determine the Entrance and Exit Routes for Responders.

As predicted, the river crested at 3 feet above flood level. Search and rescue operations are underway. There is increasing concern about the nuclear power plant in the downstream area. Three people lost their lives and numerous people suffered injuries. Mutual aid resources are arriving from three surrounding jurisdictions. Incident response is expected to continue for the next 36 hours. After expanding the Operations Section, what addition to the organization would you make? A. Establish a Planning Section and begin producing written Incident Action Plans. B. Use a Technical Specialist in the Logistics Section to perform cost accounting functions. C. Appoint three Deputy Incident Commanders from each of the cooperating agencies providing resources.

A.

some more details on unified command

A. Enables all responsible agencies to manage an incident together by establishing a common set of incident objectives and strategies B. Allows Incident Commanders to make joint decisions by establishing a single command structure at one Incident Command Post (ICP) C. Maintains Unity of Command. Each employee reports to only one supervisor

example of resource categorization and typing

An Ambulance Ground Team is in the Emergency Medical Services Category. It's Resource Kind is a Team. The definition of a Type 3 Ambulance Ground Team includes a crew of 2 (an EMT 1 and an Ambulance Operator), with Basic Life Support (BLS) Capability, and the capacity to transport 2 non-ambulatory patients.

cooperating agency vs. assisting agency

An assisting agency has DIRECT responsibility for incident response, whereas a cooperating agency is simply OFFERING ASSISTANCE

The command function must be clearly established from the beginning of an incident. When command is transferred, the process must include: A. A meeting of all Command and General Staff to communicate tactical direction. B. A briefing that captures all essential information for continuing safe and effective operations. C. A revision of the incident objectives and the development of a new Incident Action Plan. D. A listing of preferred terminology for organizational functions, incident facilities, resource descriptions, and position titles.

B, he process of moving responsibility for incident command from one Incident Commander to another is called transfer of command. Transfer of command must include a transfer of command briefing — which may be oral, written, or a combination of both.

"Everyone should avoid skin contact with floodwaters. Drive with lights on. Watch for downed power lines in flood vicinity. Wear personal flotation devices when near/around water. Monitor City radio frequency F2 for safety updates." Who would present this information during the Operational Period Briefing? A. Public Information Officer B. Safety Officer C. Logistics Section Chief

B.

I've Type I ambulances and crew complements with a leader. A. Single Resource B. Task Force C. Strike Team

C, A Strike Team is a set number of resources of the same kind and type with common communications operating under the direct supervision of a Strike Team Leader.

Rain is continuing and response resources are being ordered to address the needs of flood victims and restore essential services. Select the best course of action: A. Establish the Logistics Section to manage a Staging Area with resources ready for deployment. B. Request that the Safety Officer manage the Staging Area to ensure responder safety. C. Assign a Staging Area Manager who will report to the Operations Section Chief.

C, After a Staging Area has been designated and named, a Staging Area Manager will be assigned. The Staging Area Manager will report to the Operations Section Chief or to the Incident Commander if the Operations Section Chief has not been designated. Remember: Staging Areas are set up at an incident where resources are awaiting a tactical assignment. All resources in the Staging Area are assigned and should be ready for deployment. Staging Areas should not be used to locate out-of-service resources or for logistics functions. Staging Areas may be relocated as necessary.

Pat Jones is the Resources Unit Leader. No Planning Section Chief is assigned. Who does Pat Jones report to? A. Operations Section Chief B. Liaison Officer C. Incident Commander D. No direct supervisor

C, As illustrated in the organizational chart, in this situation the Resources Unit Leader reports to the Incident Commander.

Scenario: The Command Staff consists of a Safety Officer and Public Information Officer. Which organizational structure for the General Staff uses correct ICS principles, position titles, and features? A. Four Strike Teams that combine different types of law enforcement and medical resources under the supervision of a Leader. B. Separate Divisions that are assigned to accomplish different incident objectives under the supervision of a Leader. C. Two Branches that manage Medical (EMS and Life Support) and Investigative (Police) resources under the supervision of a Director.

C, Remember... A Strike Team is composed of specified combinations of the same kind and type of resources, with common communications and a Leader. A Task Force is a group of resources with common communications and a leader that may be preestablished and sent to an incident, or formed at an incident. Division is the organizational level having responsibility for operations within a defined geographic area. A Supervisor manages a Division.

Scenario:A multivehicle accident has occurred with fatalities and numerous critical injuries, and there are possible structural integrity concerns with the road. Local resources are on the scene. The rescue, investigation, and engineering operations are expected to go into multiple operational periods. Operational briefings are being documented; a written Incident Action Plan has been developed. A. Type 5 Incident B. Type 4 Incident C. Type 3 Incident D. Type 2 Incident E. Type 1 Incident

C, This incident is a Type 3 Incident. Several single resources are activated, operational briefings are being documented, and the Incident Action Plan is written.

A bank robber is holding staff and patrons hostage. An Operations Section has been activated with a Perimeter Control Group, Investigation Group, and SWAT Unit. The Command Staff includes the Incident Commander and a Public Information Officer, and the incident may extend into multiple operational periods. A. Type 5 Incident B. Type 4 Incident C. Type 3 Incident D. Type 2 Incident E. Type 1 Incident

C, This incident is a Type 3 incident. Some of the Command Staff have been activated, and the incident may extend into multiple operational periods.

Select the true statement: A. The ICS intelligence function is limited to national security or other types of classified information. B. In ICS, modular organization means that the Incident Commander must activate complete, intact teams to staff the different functional areas. C. Resources include personnel, tools, and equipment available, or potentially available, for assignment to incidents. D. The use of radio codes (10-codes) is the most efficient means of communicating within an ICS organization.

C.

Numerical Resource Typing

Resource types range from Type I (most capable) to Type IV (least capable), letting you reserve the appropriate level of resource for your incident by describing the size, capability, and staffing qualifications of a specific resource.