Format
What is the standard layout of an AAR?
Summary, strengths, areas for improvement, recommendations
Who should lead the AAR process?
A neutral facilitator or Planning Section
When should an AAR ideally begin?
Within days after the event
What form is used to document feedback during the event?
ICS 214 or Hotwash Form
Who should receive the AAR?
All stakeholders and leadership
What two timelines are often included in an AAR?
Incident timeline and response timeline
Why include representatives from each responding agency?
To ensure accuracy and completeness
What is a 'hotwash'?
Immediate debrief held shortly after the incident
What kind of data supports AAR findings?
Quantitative and qualitative data
What is one major use of AARs for future planning?
Training and exercises
Why is a 'Lessons Learned' section important?
To promote organizational improvement
What’s the benefit of a multidisciplinary team?
Captures different perspectives
Why is timeliness important?
Details are fresh and actionable
What tool can be used to visualize key response gaps?
GIS or dashboards
Why include corrective action plans in an AAR?
To ensure follow-up
What section is best used to support funding requests?
Recommendations with cost implications
Who should review the draft AAR before publishing?
Senior leadership or command staff
What is a drawback of waiting too long to conduct AARs?
Memory fades; bias sets in
What’s one way to gather anonymous feedback?
Online surveys
How can AARs help in grant writing?
Justify need with documented gaps
What part should include ICS forms or documentation references?
Appendices
What’s the risk of excluding operations personnel from the AAR process?
Missing ground truth issues
What’s the ideal timeframe to finalize an AAR?
Within 30-60 days
Why include photos in AARs?
Visual proof of issues or success
How often should AARs be revisited?
Before similar future events