The National Incident Management System (NIMS) is a framework created by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to guide all levels of government, NGOs, and private sectors in working together during incidents and emergencies. A critical part of NIMS is its 14 Management Characteristics, which ensure efficient and effective incident response and coordination.
In this article, we’ll answer the question “How many NIMS management characteristics are there?”, explore what they are, why they matter, and how they support emergency response systems in the United States.
Table of Contents
✅ Quick Answer
There are 14 NIMS Management Characteristics. These characteristics form the core foundation of NIMS and are designed to enhance response coordination, leadership, and communication during any kind of incident—from natural disasters to large-scale emergencies.
📚 What Is NIMS?
Before diving into the characteristics, let’s quickly review what NIMS is.
NIMS stands for the National Incident Management System, introduced by FEMA as a standard approach to incident management. It applies to all types of hazards and jurisdictions and includes:
- Command and coordination
- Resource management
- Communications and information management
- Ongoing preparedness
One of the core components of NIMS is the Incident Command System (ICS), which is structured around these 14 management characteristics.
🔢 The 14 NIMS Management Characteristics
Here is a breakdown of each characteristic, what it means, and why it’s important:
1. Common Terminology
Using standardized terms and plain language ensures clear communication across agencies and sectors.
2. Modular Organization
The response structure can expand or contract based on the size and complexity of the incident.
3. Management by Objectives
All incident activities are directed by specific, measurable objectives that are established and communicated by leadership.
4. Incident Action Planning
Plans outline incident objectives, strategies, and tactical operations. These are updated regularly to reflect current conditions.
5. Manageable Span of Control
A supervisor should manage between 3 to 7 subordinates effectively—ideally 5—to maintain oversight and reduce confusion.
6. Incident Facilities and Locations
Designated areas such as Incident Command Posts, staging areas, and bases are clearly marked and used for operations.
7. Comprehensive Resource Management
Resources (personnel, equipment, supplies) are tracked and managed efficiently from mobilization to demobilization.
8. Integrated Communications
All organizations involved in the response use interoperable communication systems and established procedures.
9. Establishment and Transfer of Command
Clearly defined authority and protocols exist for establishing and transferring command during incident operations.
10. Chain of Command and Unity of Command
Personnel report to only one supervisor, preventing confusion and ensuring accountability.
11. Unified Command
Multiple agencies with jurisdictional responsibility manage an incident together through a common set of objectives.
12. Accountability
Personnel must adhere to check-in/check-out procedures, resource tracking, and supervision requirements.
13. Dispatch/Deployment
Only deploy personnel and resources after being requested through proper channels—no self-dispatching.
14. Information and Intelligence Management
Information is collected, analyzed, and distributed efficiently to support decision-making.
🧠 Why These Characteristics Matter
These 14 characteristics ensure that emergency responses are:
- Organized
- Scalable
- Efficient
- Safe
- Interoperable
By following this structure, agencies at the local, state, and federal levels can coordinate with private and nonprofit organizations seamlessly during high-stress scenarios.
🏛️ Real-Life Application
Here’s a real-world example of how these principles play out:
During a hurricane response, multiple agencies (FEMA, local fire departments, Red Cross, and National Guard) may be involved. Thanks to Unified Command, they all work under a shared set of objectives. Common Terminology and Integrated Communications ensure everyone understands orders, regardless of their agency. Resources are tracked and allocated using Comprehensive Resource Management, while Incident Action Plans are updated daily.
📌 Summary Table
| Characteristic | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Common Terminology | Ensures clear communication |
| Modular Organization | Adapts structure based on incident needs |
| Management by Objectives | Guides response actions |
| Incident Action Planning | Provides a roadmap for operations |
| Manageable Span of Control | Avoids overwhelming supervisors |
| Incident Facilities and Locations | Coordinates response sites |
| Comprehensive Resource Management | Tracks and utilizes resources |
| Integrated Communications | Maintains interoperable contact |
| Establishment and Transfer of Command | Defines leadership and transitions |
| Chain/Unity of Command | Clarifies supervision structure |
| Unified Command | Aligns multi-agency objectives |
| Accountability | Tracks personnel and responsibilities |
| Dispatch/Deployment | Prevents chaos through coordinated action |
| Information and Intelligence Mgmt | Improves decision-making with data |
📝 FAQs
❓ How many NIMS management characteristics are there?
There are 14 standardized characteristics defined by FEMA to guide incident management operations.
❓ Is NIMS only for large disasters?
No. NIMS applies to all hazards and all sizes of incidents, including small events at the local level.
❓ Who uses the NIMS management characteristics?
All U.S. emergency response organizations—including police, fire, EMS, public health, and even private-sector partners.
Understanding the 14 NIMS management characteristics is essential for anyone involved in emergency response, public safety, or crisis management. They provide a proven framework that helps agencies coordinate, communicate, and take effective action—even in the most chaotic situations.
If you’re preparing for a FEMA ICS certification or training course, make sure you memorize and understand these principles—they’re at the heart of successful incident management.
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