ICS Principle: Chain, Unity, and Transfer of Command

ICS provides for an orderly line of authority. Under ICS, personnel:

  • Report to only one person, their ICS supervisor.
  • Receive work assignments only from this ICS supervisor.

A clear chain of command eliminates confusion during the stress of an incident.

Command can be transferred from one Incident Commander to another when a more qualified Incident Commander is needed or available or for legal reasons.

Incident Commander writing on pad of paper