Which of the following is NOT one of the five major ICS functions?

• A. Command
• B. Operations (BE)
• C. Planning
• D. Public Information

Answer: (D)

Understanding how the Incident Command System is organized helps you see why this option isn’t part of the five major management functions. The five major functions are Command, Operations, Planning, Logistics, and Finance/Administration. Public Information isn’t one of these core management sections; it’s a staff function that sits under the Command Staff as the Public Information Officer, handling communication with the public and the media. So while Public Information is crucial for incident communication, it isn’t counted among the five major functional areas. The other choices fit the five-function model: Command provides overall leadership, Operations handles tactical field work, Planning develops the incident action plan and keeps situational awareness, Logistics provides facilities and services, and Finance/Administration handles costs and procurement.