The Incident Command System (ICS) is a management tool that is rapidly being adopted by
professional emergency responders throughout the country. ICS provides a coordinated system of
command, communications, organization, and accountability in managing emergency events. Due
 to the wide spread use of ICS, Amateur Radio operators should be familiar with the system, as well
as how they will interface with agencies employing ICS.

Integral to the ICS is the concept of Unified Command. There is only one boss, the Incident
Commander, who is responsible for the overall operation. For any incident, there are a number of
functions that must be performed ranging from planning and logistics to handling the press. The
functional requirements of planning, logistics, operations, and finance are always present despite
the size of the incident. They may be handled by a single individual for a small incident, or a
"Command Staff" in a large incident. Another characteristic of ICS is "span of control."

In simple terms, any manager should only directly manage a small number of people. ICS uses
the number of five for organizational purposes. The number five isn't hard and fast, but provides a
useful organizational guide line.

How does the Amateur Radio volunteer fit into the Incident Command System? We are expected to
be communicators, and within the ICS, this would place us in the Logistics Section in the Service
Branch as part of the Communications Unit. The communications unit provides all communications
services for the operation.