Who is responsible for establishing the Incident Command System (ICS)?

The Incident Command System (ICS) is primarily established by the first arriving officers at the scene of an incident. These officers are trained to assess the situation and take immediate command to ensure that an effective response begins without delay. Their role is crucial as they initiate the ICS framework, establishing command and ensuring that resources are deployed effectively to manage the situation.

This system allows for a structured approach to incident management, ensuring clear lines of authority and communication. Although command center leadership and emergency management officials play significant roles in overall incident management and support, it is the first responders on-site who initially establish the ICS and set the stage for subsequent strategies. This serves to facilitate efficient coordination throughout the duration of the incident response.