INCIDENT COMMANDER (IC)

The IC's responsibility is the overall management of the incident. During many incidents command activity is carried out by a single IC, while other incidents require that command activities and responsibilities are carried out by multiple ICs as a UC. The IC is selected based on qualifications and experience. The IC may have Deputy ICs, who may be from the same organization or from an assisting agency. The Deputy IC must have the same qualifications as the IC, as they must be ready to take over that position at any time. When span of control becomes an issue for the IC, a Deputy IC may be assigned to manage the Command Staff.

The major responsibilities of the IC are:

1. Obtain a briefing from the prior IC (ICS 201-CG).
2. Determine incident objectives and general direction for managing the incident
3. Establish priorities.
4. Establish an appropriate ICS organization.
5. Establish an ICP.
6. Brief Command Staff and Section Chiefs.
7. Ensure planning meetings are scheduled as required.
8. Approve and authorize the implementation of an IAP.
9. Approve the Site Safety and Health Plan (ICS 208-CG), if developed.
10. Ensure that adequate safety measures are in place.
11. Establish the incident specific CIRs and time criticality of the information.
12. Coordinate activity for all Command and General Staff.
13. Identify and coordinate with key people and officials.
14. Approve requests for additional resources or for the release of resources.
15. Keep agency administrator informed of incident status.
16. Approve the use of trainees, volunteers, and CG Auxiliary personnel.
17. Authorize release of information to the news media.
18. Ensure Incident Status Summary (ICS 209-CG) is completed and forwarded to appropriate higher authority.
19. Order the demobilization of the incident when appropriate.
20. Maintain Unit Log (ICS 214-CG) and forward to DOCL for disposition.