Training

NIMS and ICS Training and Certifications

NIMS – National Incident Management System
NIMS was developed so responders from different jurisdictions and disciplines can work together better to respond to natural disasters and emergencies, including acts of terrorism. NIMS benefits include a unified approach to incident management; standard command and management structures; and emphasis on preparedness, mutual aid and resource management.

ICS – Incident Command System
ICS is a standardized, on-scene, all-hazard incident management concept. ICS is based upon a flexible, scalable response organization providing a common framework within which people can work together effectively. These people may be drawn from multiple agencies that do not routinely work together. ICS is designed to give standard response and operation procedures to reduce the problems and potential for miscommunication on such incidents.

Need classes and certification
• Required by Homeland Security or no Homeland Security money.
• Mandated by law that all responding agencies use ICS from the feds to the locals (including military).
• Knowledge allows the individual to understand the response system for emergency management.
• The system is consistent throughout the nation, so anyone who reports to a scene or is providing support knows there is a system in place to what leadership that they are to reporting.

What courses are needed
• IS-700 National Incident Management System (NIMS), An Introduction.
• IS-100 Introduction to Incident Command System.

Leadership also needs
• IS-200 ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incidents.

Where to get the training
• Online training at http://training.fema.gov/, click on "FEMA Independent Study" in green menu bar then "ISP Course List" in the red box.
• Attend the training offered "free" at and by Kitsap DEM. Go to http://www.kitsapdem.org/classes.asp to to see upcoming training sessions and to register.