Which general staff position is responsible for preparing and documenting the incident action plan?

The Planning Section Chief is responsible for preparing and documenting the Incident Action Plan (IAP). This position plays a crucial role in the incident management structure by collecting, evaluating, and disseminating information regarding the incident. The Planning Section Chief coordinates with other sections to ensure that the objectives of the IAP align with the overall strategy for the response. They also track the progress of incident response activities, facilitating updates and adjustments to the plan as necessary.

This role involves analyzing the current situation, forecasting future conditions, and determining the resources and activities needed to achieve the operational objectives. By overseeing the development of the IAP, the Planning Section Chief ensures that all incident personnel are aware of their tasks and that there is a clear direction for incident activities. This centralization of planning enhances operational efficiency and effectiveness during incidents.