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The ICS 201 form, also known as the Incident Briefing, plays a pivotal role in the initial stages of emergency response, enabling incident commanders and their teams to effectively assess and document critical information about an ongoing incident. This form serves multiple purposes—it not only provides a comprehensive overview of the incident name, number, and the precise date and time of initiation but also includes an essential map or sketch. Such visual aids illustrate the operational area, the incident site, and any impacted regions, thereby enhancing situational awareness. Equally important is the Situation Summary and Health and Safety Briefing section, which identifies potential hazards that responders may encounter, alongside proposed safety measures to mitigate these risks. Furthermore, the ICS 201 outlines the current and planned objectives, as well as the actions, strategies, and tactics being employed to address the incident. A detailed resource summary section lists the resources ordered, their location, and status, thus facilitating better resource management. Additionally, the form requires the preparer's name, position, and signature, ensuring accountability and clarity in the chain of command. As a key component of an Incident Action Plan, this form is ideally duplicated for distribution among command and general staff prior to the initial briefing, thereby promoting informed decision-making and coordinated actions among responders.

Ics 201 Example

INCIDENT BRIEFING (ICS 201)

1. Incident Name:

2. Incident Number:

3.Date/Time Initiated:

Date:Time:

4.Map/Sketch (include sketch, showing the total area of operations, the incident site/area, impacted and threatened areas, overflight results, trajectories, impacted shorelines, or other graphics depicting situational status and resource assignment):

5.Situation Summary and Health and Safety Briefing (for briefings or transfer of command): Recognize potential incident Health and Safety Hazards and develop necessary measures (remove hazard, provide personal protective equipment, warn people of the hazard) to protect responders from those hazards.

6. Prepared by: Name:

 

Position/Title:

 

Signature:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ICS 201, Page 1

 

 

Date/Time:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INCIDENT BRIEFING (ICS 201)

1. Incident Name:

2. Incident Number:

3. Date/Time Initiated:

 

 

Date:

Time:

7. Current and Planned Objectives:

8. Current and Planned Actions, Strategies, and Tactics:

Time:

Actions:

6. Prepared by: Name:

ICS 201, Page 2

Position/Title:Signature:

Date/Time:

INCIDENT BRIEFING (ICS 201)

1. Incident Name:

2. Incident Number:

3.Date/Time Initiated:

Date:Time:

9.Current Organization (fill in additional organization as appropriate):

Incident Commander(s)

Liaison Officer

Safety Officer

Public Information Officer

Planning Section Chief

Operations Section Chief

Finance/Administration

Section Chief

Logistics Section Chief

6. Prepared by: Name:

ICS 201, Page 3

Position/Title:Signature:

Date/Time:

INCIDENT BRIEFING (ICS 201)

1. Incident Name:

 

2. Incident Number:

 

 

3. Date/Time Initiated:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

Time:

10. Resource Summary:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Resource

Resource

Date/Time

 

Arrived

Notes (location/assignment/status)

Identifier

Ordered

ETA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6. Prepared by: Name:

ICS 201, Page 4

Position/Title:Signature:

Date/Time:

ICS 201

Incident Briefing

Purpose. The Incident Briefing (ICS 201) provides the Incident Commander (and the Command and General Staffs) with basic information regarding the incident situation and the resources allocated to the incident. In addition to a briefing document, the ICS 201 also serves as an initial action worksheet. It serves as a permanent record of the initial response to the incident.

Preparation. The briefing form is prepared by the Incident Commander for presentation to the incoming Incident Commander along with a more detailed oral briefing.

Distribution. Ideally, the ICS 201 is duplicated and distributed before the initial briefing of the Command and General Staffs or other responders as appropriate. The “Map/Sketch” and “Current and Planned Actions, Strategies, and Tactics” sections (pages 1–2) of the briefing form are given to the Situation Unit, while the “Current Organization” and “Resource Summary” sections (pages 3–4) are given to the Resources Unit.

Notes:

•The ICS 201 can serve as part of the initial Incident Action Plan (IAP).

•If additional pages are needed for any form page, use a blank ICS 201 and repaginate as needed.

 

Block

 

 

Block Title

 

 

Instructions

 

 

Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1

 

 

Incident Name

 

Enter the name assigned to the incident.

2

 

 

Incident Number

 

Enter the number assigned to the incident.

3

 

 

Date/Time Initiated

Enter date initiated (month/day/year) and time initiated (using the 24-

 

 

 

 

•

Date, Time

hour clock).

 

 

 

 

 

 

4

 

 

Map/Sketch (include sketch,

 

Show perimeter and other graphics depicting situational status,

 

 

 

 

showing the total area of

 

resource assignments, incident facilities, and other special information

 

 

 

 

operations, the incident

 

on a map/sketch or with attached maps. Utilize commonly accepted

 

 

 

 

site/area, impacted and

 

ICS map symbology.

 

 

 

 

threatened areas, overflight

 

If specific geospatial reference points are needed about the incident’s

 

 

 

 

results, trajectories, impacted

 

 

 

 

 

 

location or area outside the ICS organization at the incident, that

 

 

 

 

shorelines, or other graphics

 

 

 

 

 

 

information should be submitted on the Incident Status Summary (ICS

 

 

 

 

depicting situational status and

 

 

 

 

 

209).

 

 

 

 

 

resource assignment)

 

 

 

 

 

 

North should be at the top of page unless noted otherwise.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5

 

 

Situation Summary and

 

Self-explanatory.

 

 

 

 

Health and Safety Briefing (for

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

briefings or transfer of

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

command): Recognize potential

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

incident Health and Safety

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hazards and develop necessary

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

measures (remove hazard,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

provide personal protective

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

equipment, warn people of the

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

hazard) to protect responders

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

from those hazards.

 

 

 

6

 

 

Prepared by

 

Enter the name, ICS position/title, and signature of the person

 

 

 

 

•

Name

 

preparing the form. Enter date (month/day/year) and time prepared

 

 

 

•

Position/Title

 

(24-hour clock).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

•

Signature

 

 

 

 

 

 

•

Date/Time

 

 

 

7

 

 

Current and Planned

 

Enter the objectives used on the incident and note any specific problem

 

 

 

 

Objectives

areas.

 

Block

 

 

Block Title

 

 

Instructions

 

 

Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8

 

 

Current and Planned Actions,

 

Enter the current and planned actions, strategies, and tactics and time

 

 

 

 

Strategies, and Tactics

 

they may or did occur to attain the objectives. If additional pages are

 

 

 

 

•

Time

 

needed, use a blank sheet or another ICS 201 (Page 2), and adjust

 

 

 

 

•

Actions

 

page numbers accordingly.

 

 

 

 

 

9

 

 

Current Organization (fill in

• Enter on the organization chart the names of the individuals

 

 

 

 

additional organization as

 

assigned to each position.

 

 

 

 

appropriate)

• Modify the chart as necessary, and add any lines/spaces needed for

 

 

 

 

•

Incident Commander(s)

 

 

 

 

 

Command Staff Assistants, Agency Representatives, and the

 

 

 

 

•

Liaison Officer

 

organization of each of the General Staff Sections.

 

 

 

 

•

Safety Officer

• If Unified Command is being used, split the Incident Commander

 

 

 

 

•

Public Information Officer

 

box.

 

 

 

 

•

Planning Section Chief

• Indicate agency for each of the Incident Commanders listed if

 

 

 

 

•

Operations Section Chief

 

Unified Command is being used.

 

 

 

•

Finance/Administration

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Section Chief

 

 

 

 

 

 

•

Logistics Section Chief

 

 

 

10

 

 

Resource Summary

 

Enter the following information about the resources allocated to the

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

incident. If additional pages are needed, use a blank sheet or another

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ICS 201 (Page 4), and adjust page numbers accordingly.

 

 

 

 

•

Resource

 

Enter the number and appropriate category, kind, or type of resource

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ordered.

 

 

 

 

•

Resource Identifier

Enter the relevant agency designator and/or resource designator (if

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

any).

 

 

 

•

Date/Time Ordered

Enter the date (month/day/year) and time (24-hour clock) the resource

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

was ordered.

 

 

 

 

•

ETA

Enter the estimated time of arrival (ETA) to the incident (use 24-hour

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

clock).

 

 

 

•

Arrived

Enter an “X” or a checkmark upon arrival to the incident.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

•

Notes (location/

Enter notes such as the assigned location of the resource and/or the

 

 

 

 

 

assignment/status)

actual assignment and status.
Click for Ics 201 File

File Breakdown

Fact Title Description
Purpose The ICS 201 form provides essential information about the incident situation and resources, serving both as a briefing document and an initial action worksheet.
Prepared By This form must be prepared by the Incident Commander, who includes their name, title, and signature to indicate responsibility for the document.
Date/Time Initiated It is crucial to document the date and time when the incident officially begins, formatted in a specific manner to ensure clarity.
Current Objectives The current and planned objectives of the response must be clearly outlined, providing a structured direction for incident management.
Map/Sketch Requirement A map or sketch is required, which illustrates the total area of operations, importantly depicting areas impacted or threatened by the incident.
Health and Safety Briefing The form includes a section that addresses health and safety hazards, emphasizing the protection of responders through necessary measures.
Resource Summary A comprehensive resource summary is included, allowing for efficient tracking and assignment of resources throughout the incident.
Distribution Protocol The ICS 201 should be duplicated and shared with relevant personnel prior to the initial briefing, ensuring all parties are informed.
Usage in IAP This form plays a role in the creation of the initial Incident Action Plan (IAP), acting as a foundational document for the response strategy.
Section for Current Organization Designating current organizational roles is essential; it lists key personnel, such as the Incident Commander and Safety Officer, to clarify command structure.

Guide to Using Ics 201

The ICS 201 form is a critical tool for documenting the essential details of an incident, from the initial response to resource allocation. Completing this form accurately ensures that all team members are on the same page as the situation evolves. Below are the steps to fill out the ICS 201 form effectively.

  1. Incident Name: Enter the name assigned to the incident.
  2. Incident Number: Enter the number assigned to the incident.
  3. Date/Time Initiated: Indicate the date initiated (month/day/year) and the time initiated using the 24-hour clock.
  4. Map/Sketch: Provide a map or sketch showing the total area of operations, the incident site, threatened areas, and any relevant details using accepted ICS map symbology.
  5. Situation Summary and Health and Safety Briefing: Recognize any health and safety hazards and outline necessary measures for the safety of responders.
  6. Prepared By: Enter the name, position/title, signature, and the date/time of preparation of the form.
  7. Current and Planned Objectives: Document the objectives that are currently in effect and any specific problem areas to address.
  8. Current and Planned Actions, Strategies, and Tactics: Record the planned actions and any corresponding strategies or tactics in this section.
  9. Current Organization: List all relevant personnel involved in the incident, including the Incident Commander, Liaison Officer, Safety Officer, and others as applicable.
  10. Resource Summary: For each resource, provide the identifier, date/time arrived, location/assignment, and current status.

Get Answers on Ics 201

What is the ICS 201 form used for?

The ICS 201 form, also known as the Incident Briefing, serves as a foundational document for incident response management. It provides crucial information regarding the current situation of an incident, the resources allocated, and the planned actions. The form is essential for communicating updates to an incoming Incident Commander and various team members involved in managing the incident.

When should you complete the ICS 201 form?

The ICS 201 form should be completed at the beginning of an incident when the situation is first recognized. It can also be updated as needed throughout the incident to reflect changes in strategy, objectives, and resource status. Proper timing ensures that all team members have the latest information and understand their roles in response efforts.

Who is responsible for preparing the ICS 201 form?

The form is typically prepared by the Incident Commander. This individual is tasked with gathering relevant information about the incident, including details on actions taken, resources deployed, and any health and safety concerns. The completed form is then shared with team members and incoming Command Staff.

What kind of information is included in the ICS 201 form?

The ICS 201 form includes the following key information:

  1. Incident Name and Number
  2. Date and time the incident was initiated
  3. Map or sketch illustrating the operational area
  4. Situation summary and health and safety briefing
  5. Current and planned objectives
  6. Current organization of the response team
  7. Resource summary detailing who has arrived and their assignments

How do I create a map or sketch for the ICS 201 form?

To create an effective map or sketch, include the total area of operations and highlight key incident features such as impacted areas, facilities, and resource assignments. Use commonly accepted mapping symbols and ensure that North is oriented at the top of the page or clearly indicated otherwise. If necessary, attach additional maps for clarity.

What should I do if I need more space on the ICS 201 form?

If you find that you need additional space while filling out the form, you can use blank ICS 201 pages. Simply repaginate as needed to maintain a coherent document. This allows for comprehensive coverage of all necessary details without crowding the existing pages.

How is the ICS 201 form distributed?

Once the ICS 201 form is prepared, it should be duplicated and distributed to the relevant personnel before the initial briefing. Essential sections are divided among different units; for instance, the “Map/Sketch” section goes to the Situation Unit, while the “Current Organization” and “Resource Summary” go to the Resources Unit. This systematic distribution ensures that everyone has the pertinent information required for effective response.

Can the ICS 201 form be included in the Incident Action Plan?

Yes, the ICS 201 form can be included as part of the initial Incident Action Plan (IAP). Its structured information can assist in establishing a clear understanding of the situation, guiding the actions and strategies planned for the incident. This integration helps in aligning all responders on common objectives.

Common mistakes

Filling out the ICS 201 form can be a critical task during emergency response situations, yet many individuals make common mistakes that can hinder effective communication and operational efficiency. One frequent mistake involves omitting essential details in the Incident Name and Incident Number sections. Leaving these fields blank or incorrectly filled can lead to confusion about the incident being managed, creating challenges for coordination among responders.

Another common error pertains to the Date/Time Initiated section. When responders fail to use the proper format, such as the 24-hour clock, it can result in ambiguity regarding the timeline of events. An inaccurate date or time can skew the overall understanding of the incident's progression and may affect resource allocation and operational decisions.

Additionally, many individuals fail to adequately complete the Map/Sketch section. A vague or incomplete sketch can overlook critical areas of operational significance. Responders may misinterpret the current status or resources needed on the ground. A well-defined map is essential not only for visual clarity but also for strategic planning during the incident.

Another significant mistake occurs in the Situation Summary and Health and Safety Briefing. Responders sometimes do not fully recognize the potential health and safety hazards associated with the incident. Failing to outline necessary safety measures can endanger personnel and lead to adverse outcomes. It is essential to communicate hazards clearly and establish protective measures.

The Current and Planned Objectives section is also a common source of confusion. Responders may include vague or unclear objectives, which can prevent the command staff from understanding the aims of the response. Clear, actionable objectives facilitate better planning and resource deployment throughout the incident.

Finally, signing off and dating the form is a crucial step that can be easily overlooked. Without the Prepared by section filled out correctly, there is no accountability or traceability of the information provided. This can lead to misunderstandings or disputes over decisions made during the incident management process.

Documents used along the form

When managing an emergency response, several key documents supplement the ICS 201 form, each serving an important function in ensuring clarity and efficiency. Here’s a brief overview of these important forms:

  • ICS 202 - Incident Objectives: This document outlines specific objectives that guide the incident response. It details what needs to be accomplished and helps all team members stay aligned with the incident command goals.
  • ICS 203 - Organization Assignment List: This form provides a clear structure of the incident organizational hierarchy, listing all assigned positions and their corresponding responsibilities. It helps facilitate communication and coordination within the team.
  • ICS 204 - Assignment List: Designed to detail the specific tasks assigned to various resources at the incident site, this document ensures that all responders know their roles, responsibilities, and the timeframe for each task.
  • ICS 205 - Incident Communication Plan: This form is essential for outlining the communication strategies to be used during the incident. It includes information on frequencies, communication methods, and contact details for key personnel, which helps streamline operations.
  • ICS 206 - Medical Plan: Addressing health and safety, this document details medical services available at the incident site, including procedures for handling injuries and illnesses among responders, ensuring everyone’s safety in the field.
  • ICS 207 - Logistics Summary: This form provides an overview of resources and facilities, indicating what equipment and supplies are available. It assists in logistics planning and enables quick access to required resources.

Each of these forms plays a crucial role in the overall incident management strategy. They ensure that responders are informed, prepared, and working effectively towards the successful resolution of the incident. By utilizing these documents, teams can enhance their coordination and improve their overall response efforts.

Similar forms

  • ICS 201A - Incident Command System Incident Briefing: Similar to the ICS 201, the ICS 201A offers a structured template for capturing critical incident information. Both forms provide details such as the incident name, number, and time of initiation, but ICS 201A is specifically designed for use in smaller incidents or as a supporting document.
  • ICS 202 - Incident Objectives: This form serves to outline the specific objectives for an incident response, similar to the ICS 201's section on current and planned objectives. It focuses on defining clear goals and priorities for the operation.
  • ICS 203 - Organization Assignment List: The ICS 203 details the organizational structure in place for the incident. This is related to the "Current Organization" section of the ICS 201, where key personnel and their functions are listed.
  • ICS 204 - Assignment List: This document outlines specific tasks assigned to various personnel. Like the ICS 201, it emphasizes operational details, ensuring that everyone is informed of their duties within the incident.
  • ICS 205 - Incident Communications Plan: The ICS 205 facilitates communication within the incident response, mirroring the need for effective coordination highlighted in the ICS 201. Both forms aim to ensure seamless communication to enhance operational efficiency.
  • ICS 206 - Medical Plan: This form addresses the medical safety of responders, akin to the health and safety briefing section of the ICS 201. Both emphasize identifying hazards and providing safety measures to protect personnel involved in the incident.
  • ICS 207 - Incident Organization Chart: The ICS 207 provides a graphical representation of the incident management structure. This is similar to the organizational aspect of the ICS 201, where the roles of individuals in the response team are established and documented.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the ICS 201 form, attention to detail and adherence to guidelines is vital. Here is a list of things you should and shouldn't do to ensure accuracy and effectiveness:

  • Do clearly state the incident name and incident number at the beginning of the form.
  • Do provide a precise date and time for when the incident was initiated.
  • Do include detailed maps or sketches that accurately represent the incident site and areas affected.
  • Do summarize the situation and highlight any health and safety hazards.
  • Do specify the current and planned objectives in response to the incident.
  • Don't leave any sections blank, as each part of the form is essential for comprehension.
  • Don't use vague language. Be specific about actions, strategies, and resources.
  • Don't forget to sign the form and provide your title, as this adds authenticity.
  • Don't neglect the resource summary; accurately list each resource and its status.
  • Don't forget to duplicate the form and distribute it to relevant personnel before the briefing.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the ICS 201 form can lead to confusion and ineffective incident management. Here are four common misunderstandings, explained for clarity:

  • Misconception 1: The ICS 201 form is only for large incidents.

    Many believe that the ICS 201 form is necessary only for major disasters. However, it is designed to be utilized in incidents of all sizes. The form helps organize information and resources effectively, regardless of the scale of the event.

  • Misconception 2: The ICS 201 is optional and can be skipped.

    Some responders may think that completing the ICS 201 form is optional. In reality, it serves as a crucial initial document that supports clear communication among responders. Skipping it could lead to missed information and misunderstandings during an incident.

  • Misconception 3: The form is only necessary for the Incident Commander.

    There's a belief that only the Incident Commander needs to fill out the ICS 201. In fact, although the Incident Commander prepares the form, it benefits the entire command and general staff by providing essential situation updates and resource allocations.

  • Misconception 4: The ICS 201 is not useful for ongoing incidents.

    Some may think the ICS 201 form is only beneficial during the initial stages of an incident. However, it serves as a living document that can be updated and referred back to as the incident evolves. Accurate and timely updates ensure that all team members remain informed and can respond appropriately.

Key takeaways

Filling out the ICS 201 form is an essential part of incident management, ensuring that key information is captured and communicated effectively. Here are some important takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Comprehensive Information: Each section of the ICS 201 form requires detailed information. Fill out the incident name, number, and time initiated accurately to establish a clear record.
  • Health and Safety Focus: The situation summary should highlight any potential health and safety hazards. Identifying these risks and developing necessary measures is crucial for protecting responders.
  • Proper Distribution: Once completed, the ICS 201 should be duplicated and distributed before the initial briefing. Distributing the relevant sections to specific units ensures a smooth flow of information.
  • Permanent Record: The form serves not only as a briefing tool but also as a permanent record of the initial response. Keep this in mind as you document both objectives and resource assignments.