What is the function of an Area Command?

The function of an Area Command is to oversee multiple incidents that may be occurring within a specific geographical area. This structure is particularly useful in complex scenarios where several incidents are happening simultaneously, allowing for a unified command structure to facilitate coordination among different operations.

Area Command does not manage individual incidents in detail; instead, it sets strategic objectives and ensures that resources are allocated effectively across all incidents under its jurisdiction. This centralized oversight helps to prevent conflict between incidents and optimizes resource deployment, enabling Incident Commanders to focus on their specific responses without the distraction of broader operational concerns.

By providing this higher level of command, Area Command plays a crucial role in multi-incident scenarios, enhancing overall situational awareness and streamlining communication between various Incident Commanders engaged in different operational areas.