What is the first step in the incident command system (ICS) model?

In the Incident Command System (ICS), the first step involves establishing an incident management team. This is crucial because having a designated team ensures that there is a clear command structure, defined roles, and responsibilities that are essential for effective incident management. The incident management team provides guidance, coordination, and support for all activities related to the response, facilitating organized and efficient operations.

Establishing this team sets the groundwork for a well-structured response plan. It brings together individuals with specific expertise and knowledge necessary for managing an incident, coordinating resources, and ensuring that everyone involved understands their tasks. A strong management team is vital for the successful implementation of the other components within the ICS model, such as communication, hazard identification, and deploying response resources, which all depend on effective leadership and organization set by the management team.

The other choices play roles in the broader context of incident management but hinge on having that initial management team in place to lead and coordinate those efforts effectively.