Which ICS functional area is responsible for establishing tactics and directing operational resources?

The Operations functional area is crucial within the Incident Command System as it is primarily responsible for establishing tactics and directing the operational resources necessary to achieve the incident objectives. This includes managing and coordinating all incident response activities at the scene, which involves deploying personnel and equipment to effectively carry out the tactics laid out in the Incident Action Plan (IAP).

In addition to implementing the strategies, the Operations section also monitors the progress of operational activities, ensures resource integration, and adjusts tactics as necessary based on situational changes. This direct involvement in the incident's tactical operations makes the Operations section a central component in achieving successful outcomes during emergency responses.

The other functional areas have distinct roles; for instance, Planning focuses on developing the IAP and gathering intelligence, Logistics provides the resources and support needed for operations, and Finance handles budgetary matters and financial administration. Each plays an important role, but it is the Operations section that is specifically tasked with direct oversight of the tactics and resources in the field.