Which is a characteristic of the incident management system?

• A. Unique terminology
• B. Unity of command
• C. Common radio channels
• D. Prefire plans

Answer: (B)

Unity of command means every responder reports to only one supervisor for a given area or scope of work. This creates a single, clear line of authority so orders aren’t conflicting as teams expand and multiple functions operate on scene. With one person directing a unit, priorities stay aligned, decisions are coordinated, and accountability is straightforward. While standardized terminology and integrated communications are important features of the incident management system, the essential organizing principle that keeps the response unified and efficient is unity of command. Prefire plans relate to readiness before an incident, not the on-scene control structure, so they don’t define this core characteristic.