ICS Basics
What does ICS stand for?
Incident Command System
Who is in charge of the entire incident response?
The Incident Commander
What is the term for each individual reporting to only one supervisor?
Unity of Command
Name one of the five major ICS functions.
Command, Operations, Planning, Logistics, Finance/Administration
A tornado knocks out power in town. Which ICS section would coordinate getting generators and fuel?
Logistics Section
ICS was created after which major event in the 1970s?
The California wildfires
Which officer handles communication with the public and media?
The Public Information Officer (PIO)
What is the recommended “span of control” ratio in ICS?
1 supervisor to 3–7 subordinates (optimal is 1 to 5).
Which section is responsible for tracking resources and collecting incident data?
The Planning Section
A news crew arrives at the disaster site. Who should brief them?
Public Information Officer
ICS is a part of which larger national system?
NIMS (National Incident Management System)
Who coordinates with outside agencies, organizations, and stakeholders?
The Liaison Officer
If the Safety Officer gives a direction, do all personnel have to follow it—even if it overrides another command?
Yes, for immediate safety reasons.
Who provides support such as food, supplies, and equipment during a disaster?
The Logistics Section
During a chemical spill, who ensures all responders wear proper protective equipment?
Safety Officer
True or False: ICS is only used for large-scale disasters.
False – it can be used for incidents of any size.
Which officer ensures responder safety?
The Safety Officer
Why is span of control important in disaster response?
To maintain efficiency and prevent supervisors from becoming overwhelmed.
Which section manages financial, cost, and administrative concerns?
The Finance/Administration Section
A Red Cross shelter opens. Which ICS section would track this resource?
Planning Section
What is the primary purpose of ICS?
To provide a standardized, flexible structure for managing incidents efficiently and effectively.
Which position directs tactical operations such as search and rescue or fire suppression?
The Operations Section Chief
What is the difference between chain of command and unity of command?
Chain of command is the hierarchy of authority; unity of command means each individual reports to only one supervisor.
In a large incident, multiple agencies may share authority through what system?
Unified Command
In a mass casualty incident, EMS, fire, and law enforcement must all coordinate command decisions together. What ICS feature makes this possible?
Unified Command