How can ICS ensure inter-agency cooperation during an incident?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of standardized communication protocols and terminology in ensuring inter-agency cooperation during an incident. Standardization is critical in emergency management because it enables different agencies to understand each other clearly, share information effectively, and coordinate their efforts seamlessly, regardless of their usual operating procedures or jargon.

When all parties involved in an incident use the same communication frameworks, it minimizes confusion and misinterpretation that could arise from varying terminologies or procedures. This shared understanding facilitates collaboration, enhances situational awareness, and ultimately contributes to a more effective response.

The other options would hinder cooperation by either imposing unnecessary limitations on communication, as with agency liaisons, or by requiring one agency to have complete control, which can dismiss the capabilities and knowledge of other agencies. Additionally, prioritizing agency-specific procedures could lead to fragmentation and inefficiency, as agencies may focus solely on their own protocols instead of working together towards a common goal.