What does check-in refer to in incident management?

Check-in in incident management refers to the formal process of logging and documenting personnel and resources that arrive on the scene of an incident. This procedure is crucial as it establishes an accurate record of who is present and available to respond to the situation. It helps incident commanders manage personnel effectively, ensuring that all team members are accounted for and can be deployed as necessary. This formal logging also assists in maintaining safety protocols by ensuring that each participant’s presence is documented, which is critical in a chaotic incident environment.

The significance of check-in lies in its role in maintaining a clear chain of command and facilitating effective communication. Without this process, tracking the contributions and statuses of various resources can become chaotic, leading to misinformation and potential safety risks.