Unified Command

Unified Command is used for improved unity of effort in multijurisdictional or multiagency incident management.

Unified Command enables different jurisdictions and organizations to jointly manage and direct incident activities through a common set of incident objectives, strategies and a single incident action plan.

Each partner in the Unified Command maintains authority, responsibility and accountability for its own personnel and other resources, but the members of the Unified Command work together to:

  • Determine objectives, priorities and strategic guidance
  • Establish a single system for ordering resources
  • Execute integrated incident operations
  • Maximize the use of assigned resources

Because requirements vary based on the location and type of incident, the composition of the Unified Command structure adapts to fit the specific incident. 

Unified Command organizational chart with Unified Command at top, Command Staff of Public Information Officer, Safety Officer, Liaison Officer in center, and General Staff of Operations Section Chief, Planning Section Chief, Logistics Section Chief, Finance/Administration Section Chief on bottom row. Note stating Organizations represented in Unified Command are determined on a case-by-case basis and may include law enforcement, fire, public health, public works, and other entities.