The National Incident Management System (NIMS) is a comprehensive framework that provides guidance for effective incident management across all levels of government, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector. It is designed to enhance the ability of organizations to manage incidents efficiently and effectively. NIMS is based on a set of management characteristics that help organizations coordinate, collaborate, and communicate during emergency situations.
How Many NIMS Management Characteristics Are There?
NIMS consists of 14 management characteristics that organizations should possess to effectively manage incidents. These characteristics are:
- Command and Management
- Incident Facilities and Locations
- Communication and Information Management
- Resource Management
- Personnel Management and Qualifications
- Planning
- Public Information and Warning
- Operations Management
- Logistics Management
- Finance and Administration
- Intelligence and Investigations
- Interagency Coordination
- Preparedness
- Ongoing Management and Maintenance
These characteristics provide a framework for effective incident management and help organizations establish a common language and approach to emergency response. Each characteristic plays a crucial role in ensuring that incidents are managed in a coordinated and efficient manner.