As such, ICS is a dynamic system which can be adapted to fit the changing environment of disaster services, and the changing nature of disasters themselves.
Key to the success of ICS is its ability to expand from a routine incident to a complex multi-agency response in a logical progression without loss of coordination or effectiveness. In order to accomplish this, the ICS must be able to encompass all hazards and be adaptable to all types of emergency incidents. Jurisdictional authority should be determined by the geographic location of the incident, and span of control should be used as the basis for expanding the system in a modular fashion. Unity of command is established by the organizational format, and the incident commander may be an engine company captain or, if necessary, even the chief of the department. The ICS also uses a clearly and commonly understood organizational structure, with common terminology, operational procedures and qualifications for specific positions standardized across all agencies involved. Since the system is used on an everyda
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