Who is typically responsible for directing the command and control of all operations in an incident management system?

• A. Incident Commander
• B. Public Information Officer
• C. Liaison Officer
• D. Finance/Administration

Answer: (A)

The person directing command and control of all incident operations is the Incident Commander. In the Incident Command System, the Incident Commander has the ultimate authority and responsibility for establishing incident objectives, setting priorities, and coordinating the overall response. They authorize the deployment of resources, make major strategic decisions, and ensure safety and effective progression of the response. As the incident grows or involves multiple agencies, a Unified Command may be used, but the authority for directing operations remains with the command structure led by those in command.

Public Information Officers handle communications with the public and the media, Liaison Officers coordinate with other agencies and jurisdictions, and Finance/Administration focuses on cost tracking, procurement, and administrative support. These roles support the operation but do not direct the day-to-day command and control of incident operations.