Understanding the basics of the Incident Command System helps personnel recognize how roles, communication, and coordination support an organized response when an incident occurs.
Course Overview
The Incident Command System (ICS) helps organizations and responders turn chaos into order by providing clear roles, shared language, and a coordinated framework for managing incidents of any size or complexity. ICS 100, Introduction to the Incident Command System, provides an overview of the history, principles, and organizational structure of ICS. Participants will learn how ICS supports effective coordination, communication, accountability, and safe response across organizations and disciplines. This course establishes the foundation for higher level ICS training and explains how ICS aligns with the National Incident Management System (NIMS) to support integrated incident management across jurisdictions and agencies.
Who is this course for?
- Individuals who may be involved in incident response or support roles
- Personnel who require a basic understanding of ICS concepts and terminology
- Entry‑level emergency management, public safety, and support staff
- Any staff member who may interact within an ICS or NIMS‑based response structure
No prior incident management experience is required.
Course objectives
- Discuss the foundational components of an incident command system.
- Identify ICS coordination and support structures.
- Describe the incident response lifecycle.
Delivery format
This course is available in both virtual and in-person formats. The virtual format provides a fully asynchronous online learning experience that participants can complete independently. In-person delivery is available upon request and may include instructor-led instruction, facilitated discussion, practical exercises, and other application-based activities.
Both formats provide instruction and opportunities to apply foundational Incident Command System concepts to incident management and response.
Duration
2 hours
Recommended prerequisites
None
Please check with your organization or Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) to determine if you need a take any pre-requisites before this course.
This Course may be Taught in Conjunction With
- ICS-200 (ICS 100/200)
Comparable courses
- FEMA/EMI IS-100