Answer: Type 3 – Incident Type is described by these characteristics: some or all of the Command and General Staff are activated as well as Division or Group Supervisor and/or Unit Leader positions, the incident extends into multiple operational periods, and a written IAP is required.
What is an Incident Type?
The National Incident Management System (NIMS) categorizes incidents into five types based on complexity, resource requirements, and management needs. From Type 5 (the simplest) to Type 1 (the most complex), each type provides guidelines to allocate resources efficiently and execute a coordinated response.
The focus of this blog is Type 3, which is a mid-level incident that demands specific actions and resources.
Characteristics of a Type 3 Incident
Here are the defining traits of a Type 3 incident:
Activation of Command and General Staff
In a Type 3 incident, some or all members of the Command and General Staff are activated. These roles include the Incident Commander, Operations Section Chief, Planning Section Chief, Logistics Section Chief, and Finance/Administration Section Chief. Their activation ensures the incident is managed effectively at a more complex level than Type 4 or 5.
Division or Group Supervisor and/or Unit Leader Positions Filled
Additional leadership roles, such as Division or Group Supervisors and Unit Leaders, are engaged. This indicates that the incident has grown beyond the capacity of a small team, requiring more granular management within operational sections.
Incident Extends into Multiple Operational Periods
Unlike less complex incidents, a Type 3 event spans multiple operational periods. This means it cannot be resolved within a single work shift and necessitates a sustained, organized response.
A Written Incident Action Plan (IAP) is Required
A formal, written Incident Action Plan (IAP) becomes mandatory for Type 3 incidents. This document outlines objectives, strategies, and resources for each operational period, ensuring alignment and accountability among all responders.
Examples of Type 3 Incidents
To put these characteristics into context, here are examples of events that would qualify as Type 3:
- A large-scale wildfire requires coordination across multiple shifts and jurisdictions.
- A hazardous materials spill affected multiple areas over several days.
- A severe weather event like a hurricane requires sustained response efforts across communities.
Why These Characteristics Are Significant
The characteristics described above are what differentiate a Type 3 incident from simpler (Type 4 or 5) and more complex (Type 2 or 1) incidents. Key distinctions include:
- Complexity: A Type 3 incident has increased complexity, necessitating higher-level management and specialized staff.
- Duration: The need for multiple operational periods indicates an ongoing event requiring continuous resource allocation.
- Coordination: A written IAP formalizes the response strategy, providing clear guidance to all responders.
How Type 3 Compares to Other Incident Types
To provide additional context, here’s how Type 3 compares to other incident types:
| Incident Type | Characteristics |
| Type 5 | Handled within a single operational period; minimal staff required. |
| Type 4 | Still resolved within a single operational period but may involve a larger team. |
| Type 3 | Spans multiple operational periods; requires Command and General Staff activation. |
| Type 2 | High complexity; regional or national resources required; spans many days/weeks. |
| Type 1 | The most complex; involves federal/national resources and ongoing management. |
Key Takeaways
When determining which incident type fits the characteristics described—activation of Command and General Staff, use of Division Supervisors, multiple operational periods, and a written IAP—the answer is clear: Type 3 Incident.
This category of incident balances complexity with manageability, ensuring adequate resources and strategies are in place without requiring national-level intervention.
