Who takes charge of the overall strategy during an incident?

The incident commander is responsible for taking charge of the overall strategy during an incident. This role is critical as the incident commander acts as the primary decision-maker, ensuring that all operations align with the established objectives and strategies for effectively managing the incident. They assess the situation, gather intelligence, and formulate action plans while also coordinating with various sections such as operations, logistics, and planning.

The incident commander must maintain situational awareness and make quick decisions to adapt the strategy as the situation evolves. This leadership position requires a comprehensive understanding of incident management principles and the ability to communicate effectively with all involved parties, making them the central figure in directing the response efforts.