- ICS-100 Introduction to the Incident Command System: This independent study course introduces ICS and provides the foundation for higher level ICS training. It describes the history, features and principles, and organizational structure of the system. This course also explains the relationship between ICS and NIMS.
- IS-700 NIMS, an Introduction: This independent study course introduces the NIMS concept. NIMS provides a consistent nationwide template to enable all government, private-sector, and nongovernmental organizations to work together during domestic incidents.
- ICS-200 Basic Incident Command System for Initial Response: This independent study course is designed to enable personnel to operate efficiently during an incident or event within the ICS. ICS-200 provides training and resources for personnel who are likely to assume a supervisory position within the ICS.
- IS-800 National Response Framework (NRF), an Introduction: The course introduces participants to the concepts and principles of the NRF.
The Incident Command System (ICS) is a standardized, on-scene management framework designed to coordinate emergency response efforts. Originally developed in the 1970s to manage massive wildfires in California, it has since become the national standard in the United States and is widely used internationally for all types of incidents, from small house fires to large-scale disasters like hurricanes or terrorist attacks.
At its core, ICS provides a common organizational structure so that responders from different agencies—such as fire, police, and medical services—can work together seamlessly using the same terminology and procedures.
Key Characteristics
- Modular & Scalable: The system can expand or contract based on the size and complexity of the incident. Only the necessary positions are filled, but the structure is ready to grow as needed.
- Common Terminology: To avoid confusion during high-pressure situations, ICS requires the use of plain English and standard titles, rather than agency-specific codes or jargon.
- Manageable Span of Control: To ensure effective supervision, each supervisor is typically responsible for a small number of subordinates (ideally five, but ranging from three to seven).
- Unity of Command: Every person in the response reports to exactly one designated supervisor, which clarifies reporting lines and prevents conflicting orders.
The Five Primary Functional Areas
Most ICS organizations are built around these five core functions, led by an Incident Commander who has overall responsibility:
| Function | Primary Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Command | Sets incident objectives, strategies, and priorities; has overall responsibility for the incident. |
| Operations | Conducts tactical actions to reach objectives (e.g., firefighting, medical treatment, or rescue). |
| Planning | Collects and evaluates information; tracks resources; and prepares the Incident Action Plan (IAP). |
| Logistics | Provides all necessary support, including facilities, transportation, food, medical services, and supplies. |
| Finance/Admin | Monitors costs, handles procurement, and tracks personnel time for reimbursement and legal records. |
Importance and Compliance
In the United States, ICS is a core component of the National Incident Management System (NIMS). Federal law often mandates its use by state and local agencies—particularly for hazardous materials incidents—as a condition for receiving federal preparedness funding. Organizations like FEMA provide free online training to ensure all responders understand how to integrate into this hierarchy.