Which NIMS component includes the Incident Command System (ICS)?

The Incident Command System (ICS) is a fundamental component of the Command and Coordination element of the National Incident Management System (NIMS). This component is designed to provide a structured approach for managing incidents effectively, ensuring that there is clear leadership, coordination, and communication among various response teams and agencies.

The ICS framework enables organizations to respond to incidents in a flexible and scalable manner, allowing for the integration of various disciplines and jurisdictions. By having a defined command structure, the ICS allows for efficient resource allocation and situational awareness, streamlining decision-making processes during an incident.

In contrast, the other NIMS components—such as Resource Management, Communication and Information Management, and Planning—play supportive roles that interact with and complement the Command and Coordination component, but they do not house the ICS framework itself. Therefore, identifying Command and Coordination as the correct answer highlights the vital role it plays in the overarching NIMS structure.