Incident Operational Period

Full Answer Section The IC establishes IOPs in order to: Ensure that the incident response is well-coordinated and efficient Provide clear guidance to personnel on what needs to be accomplished during each IOP Allow for the assessment of progress and the adjustment of the IAP as needed The transition from the initial response to the first IOP signifies that the incident response has moved from a reactive phase to a proactive phase. During the initial response, the focus is on stabilizing the situation and protecting life and property. During the first IOP, the focus shifts to implementing the IAP and achieving the incident objectives. Here is an example of how IOPs might be used in an incident response: Incident: A wildfire Initial Response: Firefighters evacuate residents and contain the fire First IOP: Firefighters construct fire lines and begin to extinguish the fire Second IOP: Firefighters continue to extinguish the fire and begin to mop up the area Third IOP: Firefighters complete the mop-up operation and declare the fire extinguished It is important to note that IOPs are not set in stone. The IC can adjust them as needed, depending on the changing conditions of the incident.

Sample Answer

The Incident Operational Period (IOP) is a period of time scheduled for the execution of a given set of tactical actions as specified in the Incident Action Plan (IAP). IOPs can be of various lengths, although usually not over 24 hours.

The Incident Commander (IC) is responsible for establishing IOPs. The IC does this by considering the following factors:

• The size and complexity of the incident
• The resources available
• The weather and other environmental conditions
• The objectives of the incident response