During which incident type is a written Incident Action Plan always required?

A written Incident Action Plan (IAP) is always required for Type 2 Incidents due to the complexity and scale of these incidents. Type 2 Incidents are characterized by a significant activation of resources, which often spans multiple operational periods and may involve a larger geographic area. This necessitates detailed planning to ensure effective resource management, safety, and coordination among various response teams and agencies.

The IAP provides a structured framework that outlines the incident objectives, strategies, resources needed, and assignments for that specific operational period. This structured approach helps manage the complexity of the incident and ensures that all personnel are informed and directed towards the same objectives, thus enhancing overall effectiveness and efficiency in incident management.

In contrast, while other incident types may require operational plans or informal planning, the scale and resource engagement in Type 1 and Type 4 Incidents may vary in their requirements for a written IAP, and Type 5 Incidents are often managed without the need for a formal plan, as they typically involve local response and fewer resources.