Incident Command System: Positions & Responsibilities

Summary

This video outlines the Salvation Army's Incident Command System (ICS) for disaster response, detailing the structure and key roles within the operation. It covers the responsibilities of the Policy Group, Incident Commander, and various officers including the Public Information Officer, Liaison Officer, Safety Officer, and Emotional and Spiritual Care Officer. The video also highlights the operational roles of the Operations Chief, Logistics Chief, Finance and Administration Chief, and Planning Chief. The ICS ensures a well-coordinated, efficient, and comprehensive disaster response, focusing on safety, resource management, and emotional support for those affected.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Salvation Army is prepared with a disaster response plan that includes a comprehensive Incident Command System (ICS).
• 😀 The Policy Group is responsible for providing guidance, setting objectives, and appointing a qualified Incident Commander (IC).
• 😀 The Incident Commander (IC) is the field manager who implements decisions made by the Policy Group and oversees the disaster operation.
• 😀 On smaller disasters, the first responding Salvation Army worker assumes the role of Incident Commander until a more qualified person arrives.
• 😀 The ICS includes a Command Staff consisting of four key roles: Public Information Officer, Liaison Officer, Safety Officer, and Emotional & Spiritual Care Officer.
• 😀 The Public Information Officer manages media relations, provides updates, and serves as the spokesperson for the disaster operation.
• 😀 The Liaison Officer works with external agencies like FEMA and the Red Cross, coordinating efforts and ensuring smooth collaboration.
• 😀 The Safety Officer ensures the security of workers and compliance with safety standards, addressing potential threats and safety risks during the disaster.
• 😀 The Emotional & Spiritual Care Officer provides crisis counseling, spiritual support, and grief management for disaster survivors and responders.
• 😀 The general staff positions, including Operations Chief, Logistics Chief, Finance & Administration Chief, and Planning Chief, manage the core operational areas of the disaster response, including services, supplies, finances, and planning.

Q & A

What is the Incident Command System (ICS) and how is it used in disaster response?

The Incident Command System (ICS) is a standardized framework used to manage disaster operations. It provides clear roles and responsibilities for everyone involved, ensuring a coordinated response. In the Salvation Army’s disaster relief efforts, ICS is used to delegate authority, manage resources, and maintain communication across all teams and agencies.

What is the primary role of the Policy Group in a disaster response operation?

The Policy Group provides overall direction and guidance for the disaster response operation. They set objectives, priorities, and the operation's duration, and are responsible for appointing a qualified Incident Commander (IC) to manage the field operations.

What responsibilities does the Incident Commander (IC) have in a disaster relief operation?

The Incident Commander (IC) is the field manager of the operation, responsible for implementing the Policy Group’s decisions. The IC manages the disaster response on the ground, makes key operational decisions, and delegates authority to other staff members as the complexity of the disaster increases.

What is the role of the Public Information Officer (PIO) in a disaster response?

The Public Information Officer (PIO) is responsible for communication between the Salvation Army response team and the media. The PIO writes news releases, provides updates, and serves as the spokesperson or briefs the designated spokesperson about the operation.

What does the Liaison Officer do during a disaster response operation?

The Liaison Officer represents the Salvation Army at inter-agency meetings, working to build partnerships with other disaster relief organizations, such as FEMA and the American Red Cross. This officer ensures cooperation and coordinates resources among agencies.

How does the Safety Officer contribute to the disaster response?

The Safety Officer is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of all Salvation Army workers. This includes assessing safety risks, proposing solutions for potential threats, and ensuring that all work conditions meet health and safety standards.

What is the role of the Emotional and Spiritual Care Officer in the Salvation Army's ICS?

The Emotional and Spiritual Care Officer coordinates emotional and spiritual support for Salvation Army staff, volunteers, rescue workers, and survivors of the disaster. They offer critical incident stress management, prayer, and grief support to those affected by the disaster.

How does the Operations Chief support disaster relief efforts?

The Operations Chief supervises all direct services for disaster relief, including food distribution, shelter services, and disaster social services. They manage the operational logistics, oversee feeding sites, and ensure that necessary resources and personnel are in place to deliver services.

What responsibilities does the Logistics Chief hold in a disaster operation?

The Logistics Chief is responsible for procuring and managing supplies and equipment for the disaster response. This includes overseeing transportation, warehousing, and vehicle maintenance to ensure the smooth flow of resources during the operation.

What does the Finance and Administration Chief handle during a disaster relief operation?

The Finance and Administration Chief manages the financial and administrative aspects of the operation. This includes accounting, purchasing, managing personnel, arranging lodging and travel for disaster workers, and maintaining contracts and invoices.

What is the role of the Planning Chief in the ICS structure during a disaster?

The Planning Chief gathers information on the extent of the disaster, assesses the needs, and develops the Incident Action Plan. They also compile daily situation reports to help guide decision-making, forecasting what services the Salvation Army will provide based on the situation.

How does the Salvation Army coordinate with other disaster relief agencies during a crisis?

The Salvation Army coordinates with other agencies through the Liaison Officer. This position ensures that resources are shared efficiently, needs are identified, and all participating agencies work together to avoid overlap and gaps in services.

Why is the Incident Command System important for the Salvation Army's disaster response?

The Incident Command System is essential for the Salvation Army because it provides a clear structure for managing complex disaster response efforts. It ensures that resources are allocated effectively, responsibilities are clear, and coordination among various teams and external agencies is streamlined.