Question: Which ICS function is responsible for documentation of mutual aid agreements?
A) Planning
B) Logistics
C) Finance/Administration
D) Operations
Answer: C) Finance/Administration
Explanation: During a disaster or emergency, when resources are stretched thin, local governments and emergency responders may require assistance from neighboring jurisdictions. This assistance is formalized through Mutual Aid Agreements (MAAs), which outline how resources and personnel will be shared during emergencies.
The Finance/Administration function in the Incident Command System (ICS) is responsible for the documentation of Mutual Aid Agreements. This function manages the financial and administrative aspects of the incident, including budgeting, procurement, and record-keeping. In the context of Mutual Aid Agreements, the Finance/Administration function ensures that all necessary documentation is in place, such as the agreement itself, reimbursement procedures, and tracking of resources and costs.
The other functions in the ICS are also important during incidents, but their responsibilities do not include documentation of Mutual Aid Agreements. The Planning function develops the Incident Action Plan (IAP) and coordinates resources to achieve incident objectives. The Logistics function supports the incident through procurement, supply, and facilities management. The Operations function is responsible for directing and coordinating response actions in the field.
Question: Which ICS function area sets the incident objectives, strategies, and priorities, and has overall responsibility for the incident?
A) Operations
B) Planning
C) Logistics
D) Command
Answer: D) Command
Explanation: The Command function area in the Incident Command System (ICS) sets the incident objectives, strategies, and priorities, and has overall responsibility for the incident. The Command function is responsible for directing and controlling all activities at the incident site, including coordinating resources, developing the Incident Action Plan (IAP), and ensuring that incident objectives are achieved in a safe and efficient manner.
The Command function is typically led by an Incident Commander (IC), who has ultimate responsibility for the incident. The IC is responsible for establishing the Command function and for ensuring that all other ICS functions are integrated into the overall incident response. The IC also has the authority to make decisions related to the incident response and to allocate resources as necessary.
The other ICS function areas are also important, but they have specific responsibilities that are separate from the overall command and control of the incident. The Planning function area develops the IAP and coordinates resources to achieve incident objectives. The Logistics function area provides support to the incident through procurement, supply, and facilities management. The Operations function area is responsible for implementing the IAP and directing and coordinating response actions in the field.