What is the purpose of an Incident Action Plan?

The purpose of an Incident Action Plan (IAP) is to provide specific tactical direction for a designated operational period. An IAP contains detailed information about the operational objectives that need to be achieved, the tasks that responders will carry out, and the resources that will be utilized. This tactical structure ensures that all responders are on the same page and can coordinate their efforts effectively.

By outlining the specific strategies and capabilities required to address the incident, the IAP enables responders to focus on immediate goals and operational needs efficiently. Each section of the plan can include timelines, accountability for personnel, and even safety protocols tailored to the incident, which enhances the overall effectiveness of the response.

In contrast, the other options do not correctly represent the primary function of an IAP. While managing funds, defining a base of operations, and documenting the history of the incident might be relevant in different contexts, they do not capture the main focus of the plan, which is to guide the actions of the emergency response team during the critical phases of the operation.