The Incident Command System (ICS) is the systematic tool for the command, control, and coordination of an emergency response. ICS allows agencies to work together using common terminology and operating procedures for controlling personnel, facilities, equipment, and communications at an incident scene.
The purpose of this Simplified Guide is to introduce the ICS to stakeholders who may be called upon to provide specific expertise, assistance, or material during highway incidents but who may be largely unfamiliar with ICS organization and operations. These stakeholders include transportation agencies and companies involved in towing and recovery, as well as elected officials and government agency managers at all levels. This document may also be beneficial to public safety professionals, who are familiar with ICS but may not fully understand how ICS concepts are applicable to transportation [url=http://www.sankichina.com/FuelManagementSystem.htm]Fuel Management System[/url] .
The ICS is considered part of the broader incident management system as outlined in the Department of Homeland Security’s National Incident Management System (NIMS). NIMS covers the entire incident management process, including command structures like ICS as well as preparedness activities, resource management, and communications and information[url=http://www.sankichina.com/FuelManagementSystem.htm]Fuel Management System[/url] .
As you read through this document, please take the time to consider how you, your agency, and your transportation partners can communicate, cooperate, and coordinate with your region’s public safety agencies to ensure that when a traffic incident occurs, it is resolved quickly and effectively. As a first step, please share this document with your partners. This Simplified Guide is one of a series of products prepared by the FHWA Office of Operations to arm transportation professionals with the information and tools they need to work with their partner agencies at the incident scene.