What is one of the five major components of the Incident Command System?

One of the five major components of the Incident Command System is planning. In the context of the incident command structure, planning involves developing strategies and tactics to effectively manage an incident. This component is crucial as it lays the groundwork for response activities, allocating resources, and implementing operational procedures during an incident.

The planning process ensures that all objectives are met and that there is a clear understanding among team members regarding their roles and responsibilities. It encompasses assessment of the situation, resource management, and forecast of potential challenges, which helps facilitate a coordinated response to emergencies.

This component directly supports the overall incident management by ensuring that decisions are data-driven and that actions taken align with the established objectives and strategies.