What symbol represents a staging area on a map in incident management?

In incident management, particularly within the Incident Command System (ICS), a staging area is represented by a circle surrounding the letter "S" on a map. This symbol indicates the location where resources are assembled and held prior to being deployed to an incident scene. The use of a circle emphasizes the temporary nature of the staging area, highlighting that it serves as a transitional point for personnel and equipment.

The design choice of using a circle and the accompanying letter "S" effectively communicates the purpose of this area in a straightforward and easily recognizable manner, which is critical during complex incident operations. Knowing this specific symbol is essential for responders to efficiently locate and organize resources when managing an incident, thereby improving overall operational efficiency and safety.