IncidentCommandSystem

Incident Command System (ICS) is a standardized on-scene incident management concept that enables responders from multiple agencies to coordinate their response to emergencies of any size. It provides a flexible, scalable framework with common terminology and procedures, allowing integration of personnel, facilities, equipment, and communications. ICS originated in the United States during the 1970s, developed by fire service and emergency management agencies to address multi-agency wildland fires and evolving incidents. Since then it has been adopted nationwide and internationally and is a core component of the National Incident Management System (NIMS).

ICS centers on five management functions: Command, Operations, Planning, Logistics, and Finance/Administration, plus a Command Staff (for Safety, Public Information, and Liaison) as required. The structure is modular and can expand or contract to match the incident size. The incident commander or command staff establishes an incident action plan and supports a unified command when multiple agencies participate. Key principles include unified command when appropriate, a defined span of control, common terminology, integrated communications, and standardized forms and processes. Common facilities include the incident command post, staging areas, and base, with resources managed through a shared process and terminology.

ICS is widely used for emergencies, disasters, special events, and large-scale exercises. Training is tiered (for example ICS 100–400 in the United States) and aligned with NIMS to improve interoperability among agencies and jurisdictions.