When an incident expands ____________________.

A. functions and positions remain the same throughout the incident regardless of expansion.
B. only the functions and positions necessary are filled.
C. all functions of the Command and General Staff must be filled.
D. all functions of the Command and General Staff are filled and the entire list of elements within each Section.

Answer:

When an incident expands, option D is the correct answer: all functions of the Command and General Staff are filled, and the entire list of elements within each section.

The National Incident Management System (NIMS) is a standardized approach to incident management that provides a common language and framework for response across all levels of government and with private sector and non-governmental organizations. NIMS outlines the roles and responsibilities of the Command and General Staff positions, which include Operations, Planning, Logistics, Finance/Administration, and the Incident Commander.

As an incident expands, the scope and complexity of the response also increase, requiring additional resources and coordination. According to NIMS, all functions of the Command and General Staff must be filled to ensure effective and efficient incident management. This means that as the incident expands, more personnel may need to be assigned to these roles, and the entire list of elements within each section (such as the Operations Section Chief, Planning Section Chief, etc.) may need to be activated.

It’s important to note that the specific organizational structure and staffing requirements may vary depending on the type and size of the incident, as well as the jurisdiction and agency involved. However, in general, as an incident expands, a more comprehensive and coordinated response is required, which often involves filling all Command and General Staff functions and elements.