Crisis Management and the Incident Command System PDF

CRISIS MANAGEMENT AND THE INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM Preliminaries The word Crisis is any event that is going (or is expected) to lead to an unstable and dangerous situation affecting an individual, group, community, or whole society. Crisis are deemed to be negative changes in the security,...

CRISIS MANAGEMENT AND THE INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM Preliminaries The word Crisis is any event that is going (or is expected) to lead to an unstable and dangerous situation affecting an individual, group, community, or whole society. Crisis are deemed to be negative changes in the security, economic, political, societal, or environmental affairs, especially when they occur abruptly, with little or no warning. More loosely, it is a term meaning "a testing time" or an "emergency event" In this premise, crisis is a wide variety of concern where collective efforts must be bundled in, comprising all the vital factors to consider to cope with its negative consequence. Human induced crisis like hostage taking, kidnapping, bombing, public demonstrations, etc., were among of the crisis situations occurring in the country. Thus, responders and managers on the ground are challenged by how to end with much success on the negotiation and operational process. As a case in point, we shall describe the Manila hostage crisis, officially known as the Rizal Park hostage taking incident, which took place when a disgruntled former PNP member hijacked a tourist bus in Rizal Park, Manila, Philippines on August 23, 2010. The bus carried 25 people: 20 tourists, a tour guide from Hong Kong, and four local Filipinos. The hostage taker claimed that he had been unfairly dismissed from his job and demanded a fair hearing to defend himself. Negotiations (which were broadcast live on television and the internet) broke down dramatically about ten hours into the stand-off, when the police arrested the hostage taker's brother and thus incited him to open fire. Following a 90-minute gun battle, the hostage taker and eight of the hostages were killed and several others injured and have been widely criticized by pundits as "bungled" and "incompetent." Another case in point, we might consider was the Super Typhoon Yolanda. Yolanda, a category 5 super typhoon with an international name Haiyan, struck the Philippines in November 8, 2013. The provinces which receive the brunt of Eastern Visayas. In particular, the provinces of Samar and Leyte, Bohol, Cebu and Siquijor. Local government units cannot help their constituents because their physical assets were either destroyed or ther roads and bridges through which they can be conveyed had been swift by blood. At the back of these has warrant the government and private organizations to turn into the resilient side. One most important movement is the adaption of the Incident Command System as the nation's approach to handle all forms of major destructive incidents brought about by man-made and/or natural disaster that requires a multi-sectoral involvement and a whole-wide effort in the response and recovery process. On this part, the topic includes the concept and doctrine of crisis management, phases and models of negotiation; understanding terrorism, its tactics, groups and motivational classifications; managing hostage situation, stages and procedures; including the composition and functions of the On-scene Command Post. In addition, the significant features of the Incident Command System are likewise presented. To practically realize the target output of this part, it is highly suggested to employ a hostage crisis simulation, active group discussions, collaborative research output on the 43 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ analysis of hostage crisis experiences in the country, and identify best practices related to crisis management. BASIC CONCEPTS Crisis is a period of disorganization, period upset during which people attempts at arriving at solution of problems t is a crucial or decisive point or situation; & turning point; an unstable condition, as in political, social or economic. It is a state provokes when a person faces obstacles or hazards to an important life goal. The term Crisis is derived from the Greek word "krisis" which means to separate; a turning point decision in a process of an affair or a series of events. The term Emergency is derived from the Latin word "emergencia" which means dipping/plugging. A sudden condition or a state of affairs calling for an immediate action. TYPES OF CRISIS 1. MAN-MADE CRISIS - civil disturbances - strike, riot, demonstration - revolt such as mutiny and insurrection revolution, border incident - war: conventional or nuclear crimes: kidnapping, hijacking, hostage-taking, etc. 2. NATURAL CRISIS - fire, floods, earthquake, tidal waves marine/air disaster, hazardous spills, power failure, nuclear accidents water/food shortage/scarcity, drought-volcanic eruption, epidemic, etc. 3. INDIVIDUAL CRISIS - It refers to the feeling that arises when a person faces unpleasant situation such as frustrations and conflicts. This includes: a. Physical Crisis - those that are related to health problems or bodily sickness/sufferings. b. Economics Crisis - the deprivation of the basic necessities of life like food and material things. c. Emotional Crisis - when an individual is affected by negative feelings like emotional disturbances, fear, etc. d. Social Crisis - the experience lack of interest, harmonious relationship with others. confidence and social skills to relate meaningful, e. Moral Crisis - the person has an irrational or distorted concept of what is right or wrong. lack of moral values and integrity of the person. f. Psychosexual Crisis - failure of the person to assume one's sex role and identity as a man or woman. The person has an inappropriate sex objective, inadequate and distorted expression of affection. 44 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ THE CONCEPT OF CRISIS MANAGEMENT Crisis Management is the proper utilization of all available resources and the formulation of policies and procedures to effectively deal with progressive sequence of events (crisis) and sudden or unforeseen state (emergency). THE CRISIS MANAGEMENT DOCTRINE The crisis may start as basically police or special unit matter but could develop in proportion and dimension requiring further military operations. If the crisis situation is brought about by natural calamities, then it is addressed by the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council or NDRRMC (Formerly known as National Disaster Coordinating Councilor NDCC). The general idea is to prevent the occurrence of a crisis, ensure a probability of success in minimizing or neutralizing the perpetrator or to return the situation into normalcy. PHASES OF CRISIS MANAGEMENT A. PRO-ACTIVE PHASE - is the stage of advance planning, organization and coordination and control in response to an anticipated future crisis occurrence. This phase is designed to predict or prevent probability or occurrence of the crisis while at the same time prepares to handle them when they occur. 1. PREDICTION - the first stage of anticipating future crisis occurrences through the following; a. Update-Intelligence - involves the collection of information from variety of sources as basis of actions and plan; those that are related to crisis management contingency planning. b. Events - are those incidents that are already passed which can facilitate analysis necessary for identification of probable threat groups, targets and necessary for advance planning. c. Threat Analysis of Threat Groups  Political Terrorist - ideologically inspire individuals who grouped together for a common purpose usually for change of government or political power. Ex. CPP/ NPA, SPT's, etc.  Criminals - these are people who commit terrorist acts for personal rather than ideological gains. Some of the terrorist acts such as kidnapping are well planned, other are not planned, but happens as a result of the fast response time by LEAS to an on-going crime. For instance, a number of bank robberies have evolved into unplanned hostage situation when policemen arrive response to an alarm robbery is in progress,  Mentally Deranged Individuals - people commit terroristic acts during a period of psychiatric disturbance dis type is the most difficult terrorist to deal with. Many of them are impulsive and unpredictable. 45 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  2. PREVENTION - this pro-active considers counter measures as part of the total system of operation. Such counter measures involve the following; a. Operation Security - a counterintelligence measure where all aspect of awareness and training must be considered to prevent threat groups from learning the units plan methods of operations. It also refers to measures taken in conducting operations or activities in secure and effective manner. b. Personal Security - it considers that all personnel are susceptible to terrorist attack so there is a need for securing them. All security measures designed to prevent unsuitable individuals of DOUGHTFUL LOYALTY from gaining access to classified matters or security facilities. c. Physical Security - encompasses protection of info, material and people including perimeter installation. A system of barrier placed between the potential intruder and the material to be protected. 3. PREPARATION - this pro-active phase involves organizing training and equipment personnel of the organization. In general, military commanders and officers of the PNP must organize, train and equip special reaction, security and negotiation elements and provide their immediate activation when the need arises. NCCM - National Committee on Crisis Management - serves as the umbrella organization for crisis management. The primary concern is the formulation of crisis management policies, integration of mil/pol to public efforts towards the prevention and control of crisis. The On-site Command Post (OSCP) shall establish with in the crisis incident site. It is a post or unit within a probable target to be headed by an on-scene commander (OSC) whose responsibility is to take charge of every happening of a crisis incident scene. Composition of the OSCP TACTICAL UNIT - composed of regular military or police placed under the operational command of the OSC. 1. Reaction Element - Special action unit which are specially organized, equipped and deployed in the region to hold special operation in cases of crisis incident. 2. Security Element - military or police personnel task to protect the area of perimeter security to prevent occurrence of unnecessary incidents. SUPPORT UNIT - it is a unit that provides the necessary administrative, operational and logistic support of the OSC. 1. Intelligence Team - responsible for the collection and processing of all information needed by the OSC. 2. Communication Team – responsible for insuring effective communication between OSC and other units or sub-units. 3. Logistic Team - responsible for ensuring mess services, supplies (clothing, equipment, transportation) and other logistic services. 46 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  4. Medical Team - responsible for all medical supplies and services in cases of crisis incidents. 5. Fire Fighting Team - responsible for all services related to extinguish fires intentionally set by perpetrators or during the result of operations. 6. Administrative Personnel - personnel assigned to OSC to keep written records of events, in coming or outgoing communications. 7. Legal/Investigation Team - services of investigation, preservation of evidence, documents and legal advice to the OSC. NEGOTIATION UNIT - It is headed by a chief negotiator composed of two or more members. Their primary concern is to serve first life, prevent destruction and pave way for a peaceful resolution of crisis situations. B. THE REACTIVE PHASE When a crisis occurs despite the pro-active effort, the organization concerned must prepare to perform the crisis management in accordance with their plan. PERFORMANCE - It is the action stage, the implementation of the crisis management contingency plan. 1. The Initial Action - the stage taken by the Initial Action Unit, which is composed of police and military personnel immediately organized into team to initially respond to take incident and begin the containment effort. They are responsible for: a. maintain control of the situation b. report the matter to the RCAG through channels c. secure the scene by establishing perimeter security d. evacuate by standers if possible e. prevent escape of perpetrator f. take maximum control 2. The Action Stage - The action stage starts as soon as the tactical, support unit and the negotiation unit arrived and are deployed. The OSC discusses the incident with his commander and staff and decides on the plans and actions to be taken. a. Negotiation - chief negotiator undertakes negotiation as soon as he has been properly briefed and received appropriate instruction from the OSC. He shall keep the OSCP informed of the progress of negotiations and shall take instructions only from the OSC. No further negotiation shall be undertaking when the tactical unit commander initiates tactical operations. 47 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  b. Tactical Action - the tactical commander makes a complete estimate of the crisis situation and plans his courses of action upon arrival at the scene while negotiation is in progress. He shall maintain and continuous to with the OSC. He shall take over authority on reaction element throughout the tactical operations. He shall take instructions only from the OSC and coordinate all support requirements with the OSCP. 3. The Post Action Stage - this stage begins as soon as the perpetrator surrendered, captured or neutralized. OSC shall ensure that the following are accomplished: a. Protection of the incident scene b. Investigation of the incident preservation of evidence c. Documentation d. SS - witness, hostage, perpetrators and other key participants of the incident. e. Recovered, documented, preserve evidence f. Pictorials, written reports g. Filing and prosecution of cases h. Damage Compensation and rehabilitation He also initiates recommendation for the compensation and provide assistance to civilian killed and injured during tactical operations. He initiates recommendation for the rehabilitation, construction of damage or essential infrastructures. Training and retraining of unit personnel special units and negotiators shall continue with their training to improve their proficiency and enhance their readiness. TERRORISM Terrorism is punishable under Republic Act No. 11479 or The Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 that repealed the Human Security Act of 2007. Under this law, terrorism is committed by any person who, within or outside the Philippines, regardless of the stage of execution: a. Engages in acts intended to cause death or serious bodily injury to any person, or endangers a person's life; b. Engages in acts intended to cause extensive damage or destruction to a government or public facility, public place or private property; c. Engages in acts intended to cause extensive interference with, damage or destruction to critical infrastructure; d. Develops, manufactures, possesses, acquires, transports, supplies or uses weapons, explosives or of biological, nuclear, radiological or chemical weapons; and e. Release of dangerous substances, or causing fire, floods or explosions. 48 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  When the purpose of such act, by its nature and context, is to intimidate the general public or a segment thereof, create an atmosphere or spread a message of fear, to provoke or influence by intimidation the government or any international organization, or seriously destabilize or destroy the fundamental political, economic, or social structures of the country, or create a public emergency or seriously undermine public safety, shall be guilty of committing terrorism and shall suffer the penalty of life imprisonment without the benefit of parole and the benefits of Republic Act No. 10592, otherwise known as No. 3815, as amended, otherwise known as the Revised Penal Code". Provided, That, terrorism as defined in this section shall not include advocacy, protest, dissent, stoppage of work, industrial or mass action, and other similar exercises of civil and political rights, which are not intended to cause death or serious physical harm to a person, to endanger a person's life, or to create a serious risk to public safety. Who are Considered Terrorists? A "terrorist individual" is a natural person who commits any of the following proscribed acts:  Terrorism  Threat to commit terrorism  Planning, training, preparing and facilitating the commission of terrorism  Conspiracy to commit terrorism  Proposal to commit terrorism  Inciting to commit terrorism  Recruitment to and membership in a terrorist organization  Foreign terrorist; and  Providing material support to terrorist What is Considered Terrorist Organization? A "terrorist organization" or "terrorist group" is:  any entity organized for the purpose of engaging in terrorism; or  any group of persons, organization or association who commits any of the acts enumerated above; or  United Nations Security Council-designated terrorist organization. Jurisdiction and Scope of Application Application: Extraterritorial Application. This law applies to the following: 49 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  1. Any person who commits the proscribed acts within the territorial limits or jurisdiction of the Philippines. 2. A Filipino citizen or national who commits any of the proscribed acts outside the territorial jurisdiction of the Philippines; 3. Individual persons who, although physically outside the territorial limits of the Philippines, commit any of the proscribed acts: a. inside the territorial limits of the Philippines; b. on board Philippine ship or Philippine airship; c. against Philippine citizens or persons of Philippine descent, where their citizenship or ethnicity was a factor in the commission of the crime; d. directly against the Philippine government 4. Individual persons who commit any of the proscribed acts within any embassy, consulate, or diplomatic premises belonging to or occupied by the Philippine government in an official capacity; 5. In case of an individual who is neither a citizen nor a national of the Philippines who commits any of the proscribed acts outside the territorial limits of the Philippines, UPON entering or is inside the territory of the Philippines. Elements of Terrorism (Sec. 4, ATA) (Rule 4.3) 1. cause death or serious bodily injury to any person, or endangers a person's life; 2. cause extensive damage or destruction to a government or public facility, public place, or private property; 3. cause extensive interference with, damage, or destruction to critical infrastructure; 4. develops, manufactures, possesses, acquires, transports, supplies or uses weapons, explosives or of biological, nuclear, radiological, or chemical weapons 5. release of dangerous substances, or causing fire, floods, or explosion Purposes of Terrorism 1. Intimidate the public 2. Create an atmosphere or spread a message of fear 3. Provoke or intimidate the government or any international organization 4. Seriously destabilizes or destroys the fundamental, political, economic, or social structures of the country 50 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  5. Create a public emergency or undermine public safety What is NOT Considered Terrorism (Declared Unconstitutional) 1. advocacy, protest, dissent, stoppage of work, industrial or mass action, and other similar exercises of civil and political rights 2. which are not intended to cause death or serious physical harm to a person, to endanger a person's life, or to create a serious risk to public safety Punishable Act Penalty Conspiracy to commit terrorism Life imprisonment without the benefit of parole Recruitment to a terrorist organisation Life imprisonment without the benefit of parole Membership in a terrorist organisation 12 years imprisonment Planning, training, preparing, and facilitating Life imprisonment without the benefit of parole the commission of terrorism (including possessing objects or collecting or making documents connected with the preparation of terrorism) Threat to commit terrorism 12 years imprisonment Proposal or inciting to commit terrorism 12 years imprisonment Classification of Terrorists 1. National Terrorist - a terrorist who operates and aspires to political power primarily within a single nation. 2. Transnational Terrorist - this is a terrorist who operates across national borders, whose actions and political aspirations may affect individual of more than one nationality. 3. International Terrorists - a terrorist who is controlled by, and whose actions represent the national interest of a sovereign state. Threat to Commit Terrorism Any person who shall threaten to commit any of the above-enumerated acts of terrorism (Sec.) (Rule 4.5) There is a threat to commit terrorism when intent to commit terrorism as defined in Section 4 of the Act is communicated by any means to another person or entity under circumstances that indicate the credibility of the threat. Planning, Training, Preparing, and Facilitating the Commission of Terrorism 51 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  It shall be unlawful for any person to participate in the planning, training, preparation and facilitation in the commission of terrorism, possessing objects connected with the preparation for the commission of terrorism, or collecting or making documents connected with the preparation of terrorism. "Training" refers to the giving of instruction or teaching designed to impart a specific skill in relation to terrorism as defined hereunder, as opposed to general knowledge. It is illegal to do any of the ff: 1. Participate in the planning, training, preparation, and facilitation of the commission of terrorism 2. Possess objects with knowledge or intent that these are to be used in the preparation for terrorism 3. Collect or make documents with knowledge or intent that these are to be used in the preparation for terrorism Providing Material Support to Terrorist Any person who provides material support to any terrorist individual or terrorist organization, association or group of persons committing any of the proscribed acts, or knowing that such individual or organization, association, or group of persons is committing or planning to commit such acts Liability: as principal to any and all terrorist activities committed by said individuals or organizations, in addition to other criminal liabilities he/she or they may have incurred in relation thereto "Material support" refers to any:  property, tangible or intangible, or  service,  currency or monetary instruments or financial securities,  financial services,  lodging,  training,  expert advice or assistance,  safe-houses,  false documentation or identification, 52 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ   communications equipment,  facilities,  weapons,  lethal substances,  explosives,  personnel (1 or more individuals who may be or include oneself),  transportation. Providing Material Support to Terrorists and Humanitarian Exemptions (Sec.13) (Rule4.14) Exception: Humanitarian activities undertaken by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), and other state-recognized impartial humanitarian partners or organizations in conformity with the International Humanitarian Law (IHL), do not fall within the scope of Section 12 of this Act. THE ANTI-TERRORISM COUNCIL (ATC) Composition: 1. Chairperson: the Executive Secretary 2. Vice-Chariperson: National Security Adviser 3. Members: a. Secretary of Foreign Affairs; b. Secretary of National Defense; c. Secretary of the Interior and Local Government; d. Secretary of Finance; e. Secretary of Justice; f. Secretary of Information and Communications Technology; g. AMLC Executive Director or Secretariat. AUTHORITY TO DESIGNATE TERRORIST INDIVIDUALS OR TERRORIST GROUPS (whether domestic or foreign) Who has the authority to designate as such: ATC 53 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  When: upon a finding of probable cause that the individual, groups of persons, organization, or association commit, or attempt to commit, or conspire in the commission of the proscribed acts. Scope of designation:  Authority to freeze, through the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), the assets of the designated individual, groups of persons, organization or association.  The designation shall be without prejudice to the proscription of terrorist organizations, associations, or groups of persons. Section 29. Detention Without Judicial Warrant of Arrest Who may effect warrantless arrest: any law enforcement agent or military personnel, who, having been duly authorized in writing by the ATC Violation committed: any of the acts defined and penalized under Sections 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 of this Act. Period of detention: to deliver said suspected person to the proper judicial authority within a period of fourteen (14) calendar days counted from the moment said suspected person has been apprehended or arrested, detained, and taken into custody by the law enforcement agent or military personnel When can it be extended: if it is established that: 1. further detention of the person/s is necessary to preserve evidence related to terrorism or complete the investigation. 2. further detention of the person/s is necessary to prevent the commission of another terrorism. 3. the investigation is being conducted properly and without delay. Period of extension: maximum period of (10) calendar days Duty of Arresting Officer: 1. Immediately after taking custody of a person/any member suspected of committing terrorism, the law enforcement agent or military personnel shall notify in writing the judge of the court nearest the place of apprehension or arrest of the following facts: a. the time, date, and manner of arrest b. the location or locations of the detained suspect/s c. the physical and mental condition of the detained suspect/s 2. Furnish the ATC and (CHR) of the written notice given to the judge. 54 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  3. The head of the detaining facility shall ensure that the detained suspect is informed of his/her rights as a detainee and shall ensure access to the detainee by his/her counsel or agencies and entities authorized by law to exercise visitorial powers over detention facilities. Penalty for violation: imprisonment of ten (10) years Types of Terrorist 1. State-Sponsored Terrorist - which consists of terrorist acts on a state or government by a state or government. Example: Al-Qaeda, PLO, ISIS 2. Dissent Terrorist - terrorist groups which have rebelled against their government. Example: ISIS, IRA, CPP-NPA 3. Terrorists (LFT and RIGHT) - terrorist groups rooted in political ideology. Example: Irish Republican Army (IRA), CPP-NPA, U.S. Patriot Movement. 4. Religious Terrorism - terrorist groups which are extremely religiously motivated. Example: Al-Qaeda, ISIS, Jemaah Islamiya (JI) 5. CRIMINAL TERRORISM - terrorist acts used to aid in crime and criminal profit. Example: Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), Abu Nidal Organization 6. Lone-Wolf Terrorist - someone who prepares and commits violent acts alone, outside of any command structure and without material assistance from any group. a. Anarchist, conservatives, right-wing, and nationalist. b. Special interest: religion, environment, anti-abortion, and political. MOTIVATION AND GROUP CLASSIFICATION What causes a rational thinking human being to terrorize society? Assuming that the terrorists think rationally and most of them possess a high degree of rationality), we must look to the terrorist's motives if we are to understand them, to think like them, and to ultimately them. 1. Minority Nationalistic Groups - groups fighting the majority of the community where the support base will depend one ethnic, religion, linguistic minorities at odd with the majority community. 2. Marxist Revolutionary Groups - here, the terrorists' movement is characterized by its possession of a coherent Marxist ideology and of a long-term strategy for bringing about the socialistic revolution. 3. Anarchist Group - True Anarchist are difficult to find since true anarchy brings lawlessness and disorder, which is not a natural state in which the human race exists. 4. Pathological Groups - problematic individuals who are grouped together for some terrorist activities for emotional satisfaction. 55 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  In hostage taking, hostages are usually separated in ade houses to prevent communications and escape, planning, and intelligence gathering. TERRORIST TACTICS BOMBING - Delivery to target is done through Vehicle Bomb-booby traps with attached devices, Laid Charges. bomb plates, Projected bomb-launched from riffles by a mortal device, Postal/mail bombs. ARSON - This is used to destroy or to public utilities, political HQs and industrial facilities. HIJACKING - Hijacking and skyjacking are commonly used by terrorists. The hijack supply, ammunitions, fuel cargoes, and vehicles to provide them to gain entry to a close military area, skyjacking of commercial aircraft to gain publicity or to ask demands. ASSASSINATION - The oldest but the commonly used terrorist tactic where targets are often police or military officials, or political features and they always claim responsibility of assassination. AMBUSH - This is a well-planned, well thought-out, properly rehearsed and precisely executed operation. The terrorist has time on his side and will spend considerable time preparing for an operation. Terrorist have an advantage in that they can choose the time and. place of operation. KIDNAPPING - Kidnapping for ransoms is the most common form of this tactic. The victim is normally confined in a secret hideout and kidnappers make material demands. HOSTAGE TAKING - The hostage-taker confronts the authorities and openly holds the victims for ransom. His demands are more than just material in nature. Political concessions are the frequency demanded in exchange for the hostage lives. ROBBERIES/EXTORTIONS - Terrorists' operations are expensive. To help finance their activities, terrorists rob banks and armored vehicles carrying large sums of cash. Bank robberies are also used as graduation exercises for terrorists training programs and viewed as a tactical operation. The conduct reconnaissance, plan escape routes and operates in the high degree of efficiency and the progressive taxation scheme of the CPAA/NPA is a form of extortion through coercion or use of force against the victim or his property. MANAGING HOSTAGE SITUATIONS HOSTAGE NEGOTIATION In hostage situation, the general tendency of Hostage Taker, is to focus their attention on prominent personalities to gain much needed leverage in the negotiation. Over the past decades, numerous hostage situation took place and the most widely among them were the incidents committed by Arab Terrorists during the 20th games in Munich, West Germany in September 1972; the hostage taking by Iranians of US Embassy personnel in Iran; the hijacking of an Air France flight 139, July 1976 with mostly Israelis as passengers and which craft was brought to Entebbe, Uganda by the terrorist. 56 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  In the local scene, the attempted hijacking of PAL took place in Zamboanga City by the MNLF rebels where all the passengers were held hostage and the Bank Robbery in Cubao (BPI). A man deranged and taking hostage of a child in a busy LRT station in Pasay City. Terrorist like the Abu Sayyaf taking numerous hostages to obtain money and provide protection for their escapes. In hostage situation, the authorities are faced with individuals or groups of individuals with psychological mentality, commitment, behavior stress and behavioral intolerance of varying degree - aggravated by the unpredictability of human behavior. In dealing with hostage situations, the priorities are to – 1. preserve lives 2. apprehend the captors, and 3. recover or protect properties According to experts, a hostage taking may last for an hour to more than forty hours. Hostage takers and hostages and even the negotiators become tired and stressed out of the long period of crisis intervention. Hostage becomes impatient waiting for their safe release or rescue. With this, there is a great possibility of the birth of the Stockholm's Syndrome. This is characterized by transference of attention between the captors and captives. The hostage towards his captors may generate positive feelings. STAGES OF A HOSTAGE SITUATION 1. Alarm Stage This stage is the most traumatic and dangerous. In the alarm stage, the emotion of the hostage taker is exceedingly in its highest peak, his rationalization and proper thinking is low, He may be extremely aggressive in his reaction to any perceived threat. E.g., escape of hostages, tactical assault, trickery etc. 2. Crisis Stage In this stage, when negotiation attempts are being initiated by the crisis negotiator. Outrageous demands and unpredictable emotion are marked or commonly noted in the hostage taker. There is still a great deal of danger since hostage takers try to consolidate their positions. To do these, they try to move their hostages to a safer ground area. On the part of the captive, this is the most critical because this stage may predict the remainder of the situation. Chances of survival may be enhanced or reduced during this stage through the hostage- hostage taker interaction. At this stage hostages may start to feel three (3) problems:  Isolation,  Claustrophobia  Sense of Time 57 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  Sense of time becomes important on hostages who are hoping froe rescue. This situation may also in favor of the hostage taker as they earn compliance from their captives. 3. Accommodation Stage - this is distinguished by boredom, and moments of terror. Though is considered as the longest yet is the most tranquil. In the crisis stage, and even in the alarm stage, hostages are considering escape options but in the accommodation stage, their initiative and planning are narrowed since captors has increased control over them. The hostages' sense of life preserving has increased and even tries to obey the orders. Stockholm's syndrome will likely to occur between the captors and the victims. One looks into this phenomenon in the negative that one must say that cooperation of hostages to the negotiator is constricted. 4. Resolution Stage - this is the stage when the hostage taker is being stressed out or fatigued of the situation. He is seemingly losing interest of the situation and lost most of his bargaining points. Tension between the hostages, hostage taker and the crisis negotiator are notably low. It should be regarded also that the crisis intervention techniques of the negotiation team have increased. In this stage, reactions of the hostages are mixed either blaming their captors or may become hostile and cooperative to their rescuers and even accusing them to be the responsible for the whole situation. They might even appraise their captors for taking care (saving) their lives though their captors placed them into a hell experience. THE HOSTAGE TAKER It is a must that a police who first arrived at the scene has the necessary skill to determine what type or personality of the hostage taker is. This does not mean that he must diagnose the perpetrator. In assessing the situation, one must be able to determine and know the two kinds of behavior: 1. Instrumental Behavior - those who are engaging into this kind of behaviour are having goals to obtain or to be fulfilled. Generally, hostage takers of instrumental behaviour are criminal types and intervention usually needs bargaining. E.g., barricaded criminals, or other organized crime groups. 2. Expressive Behavior - this kind of behavior is characterized by their attempt to display power. Those who engage in this kind are emotionally disturbed individuals. E.g., mentaly insane, etc.  Mentally Disturbed - This group suffers from different kinds of psychological maladies. They may or may not in touch with reality. A mentally disturbed individual may be a loner, act in accordance with non-existing irresistible force, or on a false belief or a stimulus.  Psychosis - is a gross and persistent falsification of conventional reality that leaves the person unable to manage conventional reality with any degree of effectiveness.  Delusion - is the faulty belief that is motivated primarily by the individual's needs and wishes and in fact, has no basis  Hallucination - is manifested in a visual image that is quite vivid and real to the individual who experiences it. 58 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ   Paranoia - is a set of fixed delusional beliefs that are accompanied by clear and orderly thinking outside the delusion system. Paranoia manifests itself. A paranoid has been described as "vigilant suspicious, distrustful, insecure, and chronically anxious".  Schizophrenia - is a thinking disorder. Expert says that, approximately 80 percent of the mentally ill of the population are schizophrenia. There are subcategories of this kind of mental disorder, the catatonic state and the hebephrenic state. Catatonic state is demonstrated by the patient's rigidly held position for some interminable period of time, while Hebephrenic state is when the subject acts childlike and silly.  Neurosis - is suffered by a person if most likely to be observed in a continuous state of anxiety. Erratic behavior would more than likely be displayed by reaction to anxiety in the form of ego defense mechanism such as rationalization., projection or displacement. The signs and symptoms are shaking uncontrollably and depression without explanation.  Manic depressive personality - depressed individuals are in an incapacitated mental state. He may frequently know the hostages and the latter might be the cause of his depression. Negative outlook in life, feeling unworthy slow speech, suicidal and unpredictable and extremely dangerous are the characteristics of this type of mentally disturbed. To a one who is suicidal type, he might inflict harm or even kill one of the hostages and the police will be forced to shoot him.  Inadequate personality - this is a type of person that displays attention-seeking behavior. Hostage taking is his action to prove himself or his worth. During the commission of the crime, he tends to delay his actions and be caught in flagrante in order for him to prove himself (“I'll show them”). His characteristics are homicidal, loser complex, maybe fired from many jobs and is in touch with reality. Though they are emotionally disturbed, yet they are apologetic to their behavior ("Im sorry but I have to do this to prove that I can be a good worker... ")  Anti-social personality - those who belong to this kind of personality are repeatedly having conflict with the people around them and notably having a deviant behavior from groups, social values and or individuals. They defend their face from embarrassment by blaming others in the form or rationalization. Anti-socials, when takes hostages, are generally engages in expressive acts and they are likely to dehumanize the hostages, and this is an indication that they are dangerous individuals.  The estranged person - domestic problem is the main cause why an estranged individual takes hostages. The hostages are commonly known to him and mostly are his family members. The hostage taker is experiencing from relationship breakdown in his or her interpersonal relationships and hostage taking is employed to compel the relationship to be maintained. The hostage taker at his point is afraid of losing the significant others. In order to carry out hostage-taking, alcohol and prohibited drugs are used to have the necessary courage.  Terrorists - terrorism throughout the world has been alarming for the past decades and even at present Countries around the world have been facing terrorism problems either local or international groups. In the United States alone, it has been reported that there are local terrorists sowing fear, insecurity and unrest amongst the people. They create chaos through assassinations, bombing, arson and other forms of malicious destruction of properties. 59 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ   Barricaded Criminals - this type might be robbers cornered by the police while in the act of committing their crime (i.e., bank robbers). Either barricaded in a building, roadblock or on getaway cars. Hostages may be employees, bystanders or both caught in the process of escaping. The hostage taking is a spontaneous reaction of the criminal when concerned. Some law enforcement officers consider barricaded criminals as attention seekers, but others describe then in the contrary as they avoid bring identified. Their primary aim is to escape safely taking with them the hostages as shield to prevent bring shot by the police. Usually barricaded criminals are engaged in instrumental acts as they demand for material things such as getaway cars, firearms, money, and safe escape.  Prisoners - while most prisoners spend most of their name inside the correctional institutions, some are concentrated on penal colonies under tight guards and to those who are completely secluded inside their prison cells, they are haunted by boredom, get tired and hostile. These may be due to the strict implementation of house rules, favoritism and poor prison conditions (Lack of recreational activities and inadequate facilities, poor structuring etc.) NEGOTIATION MODELS  Bargaining Negotiation Approach - in this approach, negotiation is viewed in terms of an exchange or distribution of resources.  Expressive Negotiation Approach - this approach is mainly focused on the emotional state of the hostage taker as a powerful tool to resolving of crisis situation. Expressive negotiation approach came to existence with the use of psychology, human relations theory and research. Both assume that the nature and quality of interpersonal relationships play a large role in resolving a conflict.  Communication-based negotiation approach - this approach is founded on an interactive assessment if the crisis [hostage situation as it unfolds and is created through the interaction of the negotiator and the perpetrator. Therefore, communication-based approach is an interactive process wherein negotiators and hostage takers react to each message behavior. PERSON HOSTAGE SITUATION Experience shows, time factor worked both for and against authorities. Allowing the passage of time generally permits the leader to exploit his position by consolidating his leadership. Thus, able to create a formidable bastion which cannot be neutralized without loss of life. Whereas, action taken immediately, before the prisoners can organize and arm themselves may well be less costly. Demand for freedom, normally is non-negotiable. But if, circumstance show, it is only to save the hostages, it may be granted with the permission of the highest authority and must be followed with hot pursuit after. Demand for Superintendent, Warden, or even Governor, or highest authority, as negotiator does not give incentives to surrender. In some cases, hostage taker is bloated and demands for more. Perhaps, isolation and reason would be the most effective way to handle this situation. 60 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ Technique of Kidnap/Hostage Success Hall mark of Success: Blending of tactical response and behavior know-how (alls for, development of tactics, using blocking and containment forces; expertise in use of weapons; deployment of instant communications; use of behavioral experts - cool headed and with professional leadership. This calls for training programs for the Police in these vital areas; 1. Considerable Screening All members of the team (Negotiators, Admin. Aide, Operational Aide, Sharpshooters, Patrol Personnel, etc.) in their respective line of activities, once chosen, they should be given the free reign in handling and evaluating areas and incident - for the should a senior's officer continue to counter manned orders in the site, the results will certainly be bundled. 2. Psychology Analyze various situations and develop strategies using psychological technique rather than force to obtain release of hostages. Point of training is to provide a basis for understanding and anticipating hostage takers moves, as well as possible reactions to police tactics. 3. Physical Training Physical conditioning, weapon disarming method, and unarmed self-defense are vital to control the demands of the situations 4. Firearms Pistols and revolvers, sniper scope riffle, assault weapons such as shotgun (double barrel) and sub-machine gun, tear gas with bullet proof vests. 5. Electronic Equipment Familiarization on the use of wireless transmitter, electric taking devices covert surveillance devices, etc. 6. Emergency Rescue Ambulance How to use or operate auxiliary equipment; public address system; firefighting unit; first gear ambulance may be sued as a state base to start negotiation. 7. Vehicle Operation Escape vehicle and chase vehicle, with attention placed on street and routes from various location in the site of incidents to destination (airport or other terminal) for tactical advantage. 8. Liaison 61 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  Jurisdiction matters cleared, cooperation with other agencies on possible routes must be sought. Upon arrival at the scene of incident, the negotiator should execute/act immediately the following: 1. Containment - controlling situation and are by people involved. Other people/bystanders must be obliged to get out from the area as they may add more problems. 2. Establish contact - immediately after positioning at advantage position, communicate with the leader, he may introduce himself by saying "My name is ______________, I am a ______________. I am willing to help. Never tell him your rank; the hostage taker might think you can give. So that he may ask for impossible demand. Neither should the negotiator give the feeling that he has the authority decide. Do not bluff. 3. Time Lengthening: Give more time to police to organize and coordinate plan of action. 4. Telephone Negotiation Technique - be the caller, plan and prepare, be ready with graceful exit and discipline yourself to listen. Where a demand is impossible to get, stall time by explaining that you need to talk other people. Hold on to your concession. But when concession is granted try to get the release of sick or old people in exchange. Then there is no demand at all. 5. Need for Face-to-Face Conversation - don't be ever anxious prepare for proper psychological, physical and emotional confrontation. Wear body armor and possess a weapon, but if ask to come without a weapon, ensure that they too should lay down arms before entering. When entering, see to it that you are protected with tactical back- up and consider that hostage taker might have body trap in some portions of the area, door or window of the building. Coming on face-to-face situation, maintain proper distance, observe their movement, elicit a promise or motivate them to surrender. In retreating, or in getting out of the room, face hostage takers slowly back out of the door with good cover or tactical back up. 6. Surrender Approach - start with a position approach act as if hostage taker will surrender. Do not talk too much. Gradually ask him to surrender. Reassurance is the widest thing to do. Talk details of surrender process and explain why now is better than later. Advantages of Telephone Conversation 1. Easier to say decline of demands 2. Easier to conclude the conversation 3. Conversation is quicker 4. Important items are more easily communicated 5. Caller has the advantage 62 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  Telephone conversation, however, are impersonal where the negotiator is unable to see the hostage taker, the hostages, reactions and conditions. Weapons and ammunitions are non- negotiable. Hostage Taker and Negotiator Relationship 1. Trust and Rapport - while trust must be there, beware of it. 2. Deceit - tell lies but don't be caught. Demand of Hostage answer: Money, Escapes, Vehicles Rules of Providing Answer 1. Delay, impress hostage taker even simple demand is hard to get; that you need to talk with commander or other people, etc. 2. Get something in return for every concession granted, like aged, sick and young hostages. 3. Don't give concession at once, subject to interpretation that you could get easily. Face-to-Face Negotiation 1. Don't be overanxious. 2. Wear body armor. 3. Have tactical back-up (sniper). 4. Traps at doors or windows. 5. Entering without gun being pointed at you. 6. Face-to-face mountain distance; a. Person distance - 1 to 3 feet. b. Intimate distance - about 6 inches 7. Withdrawing facing hostage taker slowly backing out of the door. Effects of Time 1. Hostage taker will wear down emotionally, psychologically. 2. Hostage taker has more demand for food and water. 3. Anxiety reduces, hostage taker given chance to organize his true self. 4. Hostage takers rationality increase. 5. Hostage taker and negotiator relationships improves. 63 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  6. Hostage takers demand may be reduced. 7. Stockholm syndrome may be developed. PLANNING AND PREPARATION FOR HOSTAGE SITUATION In a relatively small town or community where it could merely depend on a small contingent of police force, it must for purpose of preparation designate a crisis management task group. Designation and Duties 1. Field Commander  Takes charge of all forces  Provide containment of hostage taker scale of place, evaluate civilians  Establish contact with hostage taker  Consult with Command Officer 2. Operational Aide  Report to yield negotiator  Set up temporary headquarters  Coordinate assignment of off-duty personnel arriving at the scene  Assisting units as necessary  Relay orders/information to involved personnel; receive requests Administrative Aide  Report of filed negotiator  Supervise temporary headquarters  Maintains records of operations and units at scene 3. Patrol Personnel  Contain hostage takers (perpetrators) and help evacuate civilians out scene 4. Assault Team (with one leader)  Sharpshooter with high powered arms on flack vests, (protective armor) 64 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ   Chemical agent  Need facilities (two-way radio for each of the above and what to do) which is set in single frequency (strict discipline needed) and communication to originate from operational aide, form or orders, requests or updating information. What is Important  Dry Run - one way to ensure hostage negotiating unit can establish control over a situation.  Considerable Screening - members; one chosen; the team members should be given free rein in handling and evaluating of any of incident; for should a senior officer begins countermanding orders in the site, the results will certainly be a both bundled.  Patrol; units, assault units, etc., should know exactly whose command they are under.  Rescue efforts must run strictly from the top. Implementation of Methods to Deal with Hostage Situation A hostage situation of the revised PNP Operational Procedures provides the following; a. A crisis management task group shall be activated immediately. b. Incident scene shall be secured and isolated. c. Unauthorized person/s shall not be allowed for entry and exit to the incident scene. d. Witness/es name/s addresses and other information shall be recorded. Witness shall be directed to a safe location. The Ground Commander - the only person responsible for the command being the ground commander in the era. The Negotiator/s - they shall be designated by the Ground Commander. No one shall be allowed to talk to the hostage taker without clearance from the negotiating panel or ground commander. Assault Team - an assault team shall be alerted for deployment in case the negotiation fails. Members of the assault team shall wear authorized and easily recognizable uniform during the conduct of the operations. Bonnets shall not be used. Assault Plan - the assault shall be planned to ensure minimal threat to life. Support Personnel - an ambulance with medical crew and a fire truck shall be detailed at the incident. 65 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  Coordination - proper coordination with all participating elements shall be done to consolidate efforts in solving crisis. Safety of Hostage/s - in negotiating for the release of a hostage, the safety of the hostage shall always be paramount. NEGOTIATION PROCEDURES  Stabilize and contain the situation.  Select the right time to contact the hostage taker.  Take time when negotiating.  Allow hostage take to speak.  Don't offer the hostage to offer anything. What he will ask will be part of the negotiation.  Avoid directing frequent attention to the victim when talking to the hostage taker.  Do not call them hostages. Be as honest as possible; avoid tricks, be sincere.  Never dismiss any request form the hostage taker as trivial or unimportant.  Never say "NO."  Soften the demands.  Never set deadline. Try not to accept a deadline.  Do not make alternate suggestions not agreed upon in the negotiation.  Do not introduce outsiders (non-law enforcement officers) into the negotiation process, unless their presence is extremely necessary; do not exchange a negotiator for a hostage.  Law enforcement officers without proper training shall not be allowed to participate in hostage negotiations. THE INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM Backgrounder The NRDDMC has issued Memorandum Circular No.4. series of 2012 provides the Implementing Guidelines on the Use of Incident Command System (ICS) as an On-Scene Disaster response and Management Mechanism under the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management System (PDRRMS). The objective is to provide guidance to all DRRMCs and other agencies concerned from both government and private sectors on the institutionalization and proper use of Incident Command System (ICS) as a tool to organize on-scene operations for a broad spectrum of disasters or emergencies from small to complex incidents, both natural and human-induced. 66 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  The coverage of the said memorandum shall apply to all DRRMCs and other agencies concerned, whether government or private, that are responsible for all-hazards incident management in their respective areas of jurisdiction. it shall specifically cover on-scene management of emergency response operations from disaster impact to the immediate emergency response phase of an incident, with priority objectives of saving lives, ensuring safety of responders and others, protecting property and environment, and incident stabilization. During the 1st ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management Meeting (ACDM) held in Brunei Darussalam on December 09-19, 2003 the ACDM formally adapted the ASEAN-US Cooperation on Disaster Management Program, with focus on ICS Capability Building for the ten ASEAN Member States (AMS). The US Agency for International Development (USAID) which is the principal funding agency of the program has tapped the US Department of Agriculture-Forest Service (USDA-FS) as the Program Implementing Agency. The ICS Model introduced under the ASEAN-US Cooperation on Disaster Management provided the framework for adaptation of an appropriate and suitable model for on-scene disaster response and management system within the AMS respective jurisdictions, at the same time, to facilitate joint disaster emergency response and interoperability among the ASEAN Member States. The Incident Command System could also effectively address some persistent issues and problems arising at on-scene level such as who's in-charge on-site, especially when the incident involves multi-agency participation and multi-jurisdictional, too many responders, too many people reporting to one supervisor, unclear lines of authority, no check-in procedures for responders and unclear incident objectives, The on-scene disaster management tool introduced to the AMS under the Cooperation has been proven to be effective disaster response mechanism at the same level and has been utilized by the US and adapted by a number of other countries. It is now emerging as the common international language of the emergency response. In the Philippines, the NDRRMC, through the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), took the lead in the implementation of the ASBAN-US Cooperation on DM. partner agencies are the Department of Local Government - Bureau of Fire Protection (DILG-BFP), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine Red Cross (PRC), Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Fire National Training Institute (FNTI), Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), the City Government of Olongapo, Davao City Rescue 911 and Amity Public Safety Academy (APSA). Among the activities that were conducted in the country under Phases 1 and 2 of the Program include the following: Phase 1 (2003-2005) Introduction of ICS to selected NDCC (now known as NDRRMC) Member Agencies; initial adaptation initiatives to the Philippine Disaster Management System context and ICS course material adaptation; Training of Trainers on ICS and Pilot Testing of adapted course materials. Phase 2 (2009-July 2012) 67 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  ICS Inception Workshop; ICS Instructor Development through the conduct of six (6) ICS Courses, namely: 5-day CS Basic/Intermediate Course (July 1923, 2010), Integrated Planning Course (Oct. 11-21, 2010), Administration and Finance Section Chief Course (Feb.28-Mar. 1. 2011), Operations Sections Chief Course (Mar. 3-4, 2011), Logistics Section Chief Course (Mar. 4-7, 2011), and Incident Commander Course (Mar. 8-11, 2011). Thirty-two (32) participants from partner agencies have successfully completed the above courses and certified as ICS National Cadre of Instructors by the NDRRMC-OCD and United States Department of Agriculture - Forest Service (USDA-FS). They are now constituted as the core of the NDRRMC Incident Management Team (NIMT) who can be mobilized by the National Council, as necessary, to assist in on-scene disaster response and management in affected areas of the archipelago. On December 24 2009, the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER) was ratified by the ten AMS and called on the Member States, among others, to prepare standard operating procedures for regional cooperation and national action such as regional standby arrangements and coordination of disaster relief and emergency response. Moreover, RA 10121, s-2010, otherwise known as An Act Strengthening the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management System, Providing for the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Framework and Institutionalizing the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plan, has reposed on the Office of Civil Defense the primary mission "to administer a comprehensive national civil defense and disaster risk reduction and management program by providing leadership in the continuous development of strategic and systematic approaches as well as measures to reduce the vulnerabilities and risks to hazards and manage the consequences of disasters". Section 9 of the said law shall des the functions/operational directions that OCD shall undertake to effectively implement its mission. One of these functions is "to formulate standard operating procedures for the deployment of rapid assessment teams, information sharing among agencies and coordination (underscoring supplied) before and after disasters at all levels. Further, Rule 7 (h), Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of RA 10121, has expressly provided for the establishment of an Incident Command System (ICS) as part of the country’s on-scene disaster response system to ensure the effective consequence management of disasters or emergencies. Hence, in line with the objectives of AADMER and RA 10121, the Government of the Philippines through the NDRRMC, hereby adopts and integrates the incident Command System (ICS) as an on-scene incident management mechanism within the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management System (PDRRMS). Towards this end, regular conduct of ICS training for disaster managers and responders at all DRRMC levels, non- government organizations and private sector agencies and organization of Incident Management Teams for disaster response and management at the on-scene level should be pursued and integrated in the ICS development and capacity building program of all DRRMCs and other agencies concerned. TERMS TO PONDER Agency Administrator/Executive or Responsible Official - the official responsible for administering policy for an agency or jurisdiction, having full authority for making decisions, and providing direction to the management organization for an incident; he is normally the Chairperson of the DRRMC or Agency Head or their duly authorized representative. 68 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ  All-Hazards - any incident, natural or human-induced, that warrants action to protect life, property, environment, public health, or safety and minimize disruptions of government, social or economic activities. Area Command - an organization established to oversee the management of multiple incidents that are each being handled by a separate incident Command System organization or of a very large or evolving incident that has multiple Incident Management Teams engaged. An agency administrator/executive or other public official with jurisdictional responsibility for the incident usually makes the decision to establish an Area Command. It is activated only if necessary, depending on the complexity of the incident and incident management span-of- control considerations. Assistant - title for subordinates of principal Command Staff positions. The title indicates a level of technical capability, qualifications, and responsibility subordinate to the primary positions. Assistants may also be assigned to unit leaders. Base - the location at which primary Logistics functions for an incident are coordinated and administered. There is only one Base per incident. (Incident name or other designator will be added to the term Base). The Incident Command Post may be co-located with the Base. Branch - the organizational level having functional or geographical responsibility for major aspects of incident operations. A branch is organizationally situated between the section and division or group in the Operations Section, and between the section and units in the Logistics Section. Branches are identified by the use of Roman numerals or by functional area. Camp - a geographical site within the general incident area (separate from the Incident Base) that is equipped and staffed to provide sleeping, food, water, and sanitary services to incident personnel. Chain of Command - series of command, control, executive or management positions in hierarchical order of authority; an orderly line of authority within the ranks of the incident management organization. 69 | P a g e Prepared by: Alexis R. Alcantara, MSCJ