How many people should an individual with command responsibilities in an ICS normally supervise directly?

The correct answer is based on the principles of the Incident Command System (ICS) and its effective management structure. Within ICS, the concept of a manageable span of control is crucial for maintaining efficient and effective command during an incident. It is commonly accepted that an individual with command responsibilities should directly supervise no more than five personnel. This number helps ensure that the supervisor can maintain appropriate oversight and communication with those they are managing.

When the span of control is too wide, it can lead to misunderstandings, decreased operational effectiveness, and challenges in maintaining clear lines of communication. By limiting the number of direct reports to five, supervisors can provide adequate attention, guidance, and support to each team member, ensuring that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities during an operational response. This principle is fundamental to the organization and success of emergency services operations.