What is an ICS Form 201 used for?

The ICS Form 201 is utilized to document the essential details regarding an incident, such as its name, location, and the initial assessment of its impact. This form serves as a critical tool for capturing the initial strategy, objectives, and priorities of the incident response. By providing a concise summary, it aids incident commanders and the command staff in understanding the scope of the incident and planning the appropriate response efforts. The information recorded in Form 201 is vital for ongoing operation, as it helps ensure that all team members and stakeholders are aligned on the incident's status and strategic direction.

Other options, although relevant to various aspects of incident management, do not accurately describe the specific purpose of the ICS Form 201. Creating a budget, scheduling shifts, and determining resource requirements are handled through different forms and processes within the Incident Command System.