Who is responsible for setting the strategic goals during an incident?

The incident commander is responsible for setting the strategic goals during an incident. This role is crucial as the incident commander is the individual with the authority and responsibility to coordinate the overall response to an emergency situation. They assess the incident, evaluate the hazards, and determine the priorities and objectives needed to effectively manage resources and efforts.

In doing so, the incident commander develops an incident action plan, which outlines the strategic goals and operational tactics to achieve those goals. This comprehensive approach ensures that resources are utilized effectively and that all responding personnel are working toward the same objectives.

While other roles such as the safety officer, operations chief, and logistics officer have important responsibilities within the incident management team, it is the incident commander who provides the overarching direction and strategy during the incident's response efforts.