Who is responsible for overseeing the incident management process?

The Incident Commander holds the ultimate responsibility for overseeing the incident management process. This role is critical as the Incident Commander is the individual who has the authority to make decisions on the incident response strategy, resource allocation, and overall direction of the incident. They coordinate all activities, ensuring that all sections of the organization (Operations, Planning, Logistics, and Finance/Administration) work in harmony towards the incident's objectives.

The Incident Commander is also the primary point of communication with external stakeholders, such as community leaders and the media, ensuring that all relevant information is conveyed and that public safety is prioritized. This comprehensive oversight is vital for effective incident management, allowing for a cohesive response to dynamic and potentially evolving situations.