In an incident management system, what does the Operations function primarily manage?

The Operations function in an incident management system is primarily responsible for managing tactical operations. This encompasses the actual implementation of strategies and plans developed to handle an incident effectively. The Operations function coordinates the resources needed to execute the response plan, ensuring that teams are deployed where they are most needed and that their actions align with the overall goals of the incident management team.

Tactical operations involve assessing the situation on the ground, coordinating firefighting activities, hazard mitigation, and other immediate response activities. The focus is to ensure that tasks are carried out efficiently and safely, directly impacting the effectiveness of the response to an emergency situation.

While other functions, such as financial resources, personnel safety, and public relations, play essential roles in the overall incident management, their primary focus is not on the tactical execution of response measures. The Operations section is specifically crafted to encompass the core activities and tasks undertaken during an incident, making it the key element in managing how the situation is addressed on the ground.