In an incident management system, which position is primarily responsible for coordinating information flow and incident action planning?

• A. Safety Officer
• B. Public Information Officer
• C. Incident Commander
• D. Liaison

Answer: (C)

Coordinating information flow and incident action planning sits with the Incident Commander. In the Incident Command System, the Incident Commander holds the overall authority for managing the incident, sets the objectives and priorities, and ensures the Incident Action Plan is developed, updated, and put into action. They oversee how information moves between all parts of the team and stakeholders, making sure everyone works toward a common plan. The Public Information Officer handles external communications to the public and media, the Liaison coordinates with external agencies, and the Safety Officer concentrates on safety hazards and controls. The Planning Section Chief does the technical work of shaping the plan, but the Incident Commander drives the overall coordination and approves the action plan.