Using Area Command To Manage Multiple Incidents

COMMAND OFFICERS ARE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR alternate ways to manage incidents. The use of command personnel most likely is limited by the size of the agency. To compound the problem, when faced with multiple incidents, many departments often have a shortage of command-level personnel. It should be noted that initiating multiple, simultaneous terrorist attacks within a common operational area has been one of the hallmarks of al Qaeda operatives worldwide. Managing incidents using the National Incident Management System (NIMS), especially in relation to safety and accountability, is paramount to successful, safe, synergistic mitigation. Area Command offers agencies faced with multiple incidents an alternate approach to overall incident management.

命令是一个组织mechanism used, when necessary, to provide overall command and authority for two or more events or incidents, usually in close proximity to each other. It works closely with the incident commanders (ICs) to establish overall objectives, priorities, management or critical resources, logistical concerns, and planning issues. When activated, Area Command eliminates confusion by providing the necessary oversight of the incidents/events being managed.

The members of the Area Command team should be qualified and trained in their respective functions. Its positions include the following: Area Commander, Area Command Logistics Chief (which also may have a Critical Resource Unit), Area Command Planning Chief (which also may have a Situation Unit Leader), as well as the command staff positions of Liaison Officer and Information Officer. In addition, there may be a need for a Technical Specialist or an Information/Intelligence Officer. Each of these positions will necessitate sufficient staff to assist the command staff in completing their duties. Just as in the incident command system (ICS), command staff personnel may have assistants, and general staff positions may have deputies.