Title Slide: Understanding the Incident Command System (ICS) in Schools Enhancing
School Disaster Response and Management
Slide 1: Objectives
1. Develop understanding of the Incident Command System (ICS) and its role in disaster
response and management in schools.
2. Familiarize participants with the structure and key functions of ICS in the school context.
3. Enable participants to simulate and practice implementing ICS during school-based
emergencies.
Slide 2: What is ICS?
Definition: The Incident Command System (ICS) is a standardized approach to the
command, control, and coordination of emergency response.
Purpose:
o Ensures clear communication.
o Provides a structured framework for managing resources and personnel.
o Enhances efficiency in emergency response.
Slide 3: Why is ICS Important in Schools?
Schools are vulnerable to various hazards (e.g., natural disasters, fires, human-induced
crises).
ICS enables:
o Quick and organized response to emergencies.
o Clear roles and responsibilities for staff.
o Effective communication within the school and with external agencies.
Slide 4: Key Principles of ICS
1. Standardization: Common terminology and procedures.
2. Flexibility: Can adapt to any size or type of emergency.
3. Scalability: Expands or contracts depending on the complexity of the incident.
4. Accountability: Clear chain of command and reporting relationships.
Slide 5: ICS Structure Overview
1. Incident Commander:
o Provides overall leadership and decision-making.
2. Command Staff:
o Public Information Officer: Manages communication with stakeholders.
o Safety Officer: Ensures the safety of responders and students.
o Liaison Officer: Coordinates with external agencies.
3. General Staff:
o Operations Section: Handles emergency response operations.
o Planning Section: Develops action plans and tracks resources.
o Logistics Section: Provides resources, services, and supplies.
o Finance/Administration Section: Manages budgets and documentation.
Slide 6: ICS in the School Context
Incident Commander: School Principal or designated leader.
Command Staff: Key administrators and senior staff.
General Staff: Teachers, security personnel, and support staff.
Students and Parents: Play a role in adhering to instructions and protocols.
Slide 7: Benefits of Implementing ICS in Schools
1. Improved Coordination:
o Ensures everyone knows their roles.
2. Enhanced Safety:
o Minimizes risks during emergencies.
3. Streamlined Communication:
o Reduces confusion and misinformation.
4. Compliance:
o Aligns with national and local DRRM policies.
Slide 8: Implementing ICS: Steps for Schools
1. Establish the ICS Structure:
o Identify and assign roles.
2. Train Staff and Students:
o Regular training on roles and procedures.
3. Conduct Drills and Simulations:
o Practice ICS implementation during mock emergencies.
4. Evaluate and Refine:
o Assess effectiveness and update plans as needed.
Slide 9: Simulation Activity Overview
Objective: Practice implementing ICS during a school-based emergency.
Steps:
1. Assign roles (e.g., Incident Commander, Operations Team).
2. Present a mock emergency scenario.
3. Execute a response using the ICS framework.
4. Conduct debriefing to evaluate performance.
Slide 10: Reflection Questions
1. What did you learn about the ICS structure and its application in schools?
2. How can the ICS improve your school’s disaster response?
3. What challenges did you encounter during the simulation?
Slide 11: Next Steps
1. Customize the ICS framework for your school.
2. Schedule regular ICS training and drills.
3. Review and update the school’s DRRM plan to incorporate ICS.
4. Engage stakeholders (e.g., parents, local agencies) in the process.
