What is a basic ICS operational guideline regarding responsibility?

The correct answer emphasizes that in the ICS structure, responsibility primarily rests with the Incident Commander or the top leader initially. This principle is fundamental for effective incident management because it ensures clear authority and accountability. The Incident Commander is responsible for overall incident strategy and decisions, and this responsibility continues until it is formally delegated to another individual. The ICS framework promotes a clear chain of command, and maintaining responsibility with the top person helps to avoid confusion and ensures that decisions are made efficiently and effectively.

Delegation of authority is not a casual or informal practice; it should be carried out with clear communication and a documented process to maintain clarity in roles and responsibilities. This formal approach is crucial in the incident management environment, where lives and property may be at stake. Therefore, while delegation is encouraged as the incident scales, the initial responsibility remains with the top leader, providing a foundation for accountability and structured decision-making in the response.