The greatest challenge for the IC is to maintain control of the resources and to keep open communication both up and down the organizational structure. The principles of Unity of Command, Chain of Command and Span of Control allow this to take place. These three principles are also critical for maintaining the safety of incident personnel. As incidents expand, the chain of command expands through an organizational structure that can consist of several layers. In ICS the span of control for any supervisor falls in the range of three to seven, with five being considered normal.
Span of control is accomplished through timely use of delegations and good resource management.
It may be written or verbal but written plans are preferred. This is where Amateur Radio fits in ICS when there is need for the full ICS structure. As an ARES member, your job is to suppliment Served Agency communications. Each person within the ICS structure is charged with accomplishing specific tasks in support of the overall effort. Compile incident situation information Display incident status on maps, boards, etc.