Which command staff position acts as the IC's contact for outside agency representatives?

The Liaison Officer is responsible for serving as the primary contact between the Incident Commander (IC) and outside agency representatives. This role is crucial during an incident where multiple agencies may be involved, such as local, state, or federal organizations, as well as private sector entities. The Liaison Officer facilitates communication and coordination among different organizations, ensuring that information flows smoothly and that all parties involved are on the same page regarding the incident response.

This position also helps to identify the need for additional resources that outside agencies can provide, while also keeping external stakeholders informed about the situation and the actions being taken by the response team. This ensures a well-coordinated effort, which is essential in managing complex incidents effectively.

In contrast, the Safety Officer focuses on identifying and mitigating safety hazards within the incident scene, while the Public Information Officer manages communications with the media and public. The Operations Chief, on the other hand, is responsible for implementing the tactical operations of the incident response. Each of these roles has its specific functions, but the Liaison Officer’s primary duty is to bridge communication between the IC and outside agencies.