Which ICS functional area sets the incident objectives, strategies, and priorities, and has overall responsibility for the incident? A. Command B. Finance/Administration C. Operations D. Logistics
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. Command.
Explanation
In the Incident Command System (ICS), the Command functional area is singularly responsible for the overall management of an incident. This function is established at the very outset of an incident response and holds the ultimate authority and accountability for the actions taken to resolve the situation.
The Command function, led by the Incident Commander (IC) or a Unified Command (UC), is tasked with establishing the foundational elements of the response. This includes assessing the situation, understanding the scope and complexity of the incident, and then setting the overarching objectives. These objectives define what the response aims to accomplish. Based on these objectives, Command develops the strategies—the general plans or methods—to be used. Finally, Command sets the priorities to ensure that resources and efforts are applied to the most critical tasks first.
The other major ICS functional areas, known as the General Staff, are activated by and report to Command to manage specific parts of the response:
- Operations: Is responsible for the tactical, “doing” part of the response. It executes the plan developed by Command to achieve the objectives.
- Logistics: Is responsible for providing all the necessary resources and support for the incident, including facilities, transportation, supplies, equipment, and food.
- Finance/Administration: Is responsible for tracking incident costs, managing procurement, recording personnel time, and handling any compensation or claims issues.
While all these areas are critical for a successful response, only Command has the comprehensive authority to direct the entire effort and bears the overall responsibility for the incident’s outcome. It is the central point of leadership from which all other functions are directed and coordinated.
