What is the final step of a formal post-incident analysis?

The final step of a formal post-incident analysis focuses on compiling and documenting the findings from the analysis process effectively. Writing a summary of the incident for department records serves as a critical means of consolidating insights gained from the incident, including what transpired, the response, outcomes, and lessons learned. This documentation not only provides a reference for future incidents but also ensures that institutional knowledge is preserved and accessible for training and evaluation purposes.

This step is essential as it promotes continuous improvement within the department by creating a formalized record that can be revisited when assessing similar incidents in the future. It allows for accountability and the establishment of best practices based on actual experience. This final summary aids in making informed decisions about necessary changes, training needs, or policy adjustments that may stem from the earlier steps of debriefing, reviewing data, and analyzing findings.