Which section of the ICS is responsible for collecting and evaluating information about the incident?

The section responsible for collecting and evaluating information about the incident is the Planning section. This section plays a critical role in the incident management structure by gathering, analyzing, and synthesizing data relevant to the incident. This includes assessing the situation on the ground, tracking operational effectiveness, and producing actionable information to support decision-making.

In the context of the Incident Command System (ICS), the Planning section's functions encompass resource management and the development of strategies and plans to address the incident comprehensively. This critical aspect ensures that all involved parties are informed of the evolving situation, which helps facilitate an organized and effective response.

Other sections, such as Finance/Administration, Logistics, and Operations, have distinct roles that do not focus primarily on information collection and evaluation. The Finance/Administration section handles financial management and resource tracking, the Logistics section coordinates the resources and support needed for the incident response, and the Operations section implements the strategies developed during planning and oversees the execution of response efforts.