If you are preparing for your FEMA final exam and wondering what type of questions to expect, then you should put your mind to such a question as ‘Which of the following best describes the operational period briefing’.
Although it is a common question that has been featured in the exam many years in the past, it is unfortunate that not everyone knows the right answer to the question. So, in this article, we will be helping you to answer the question, ‘Which of the following best describes the operational period briefing’.
We will also take a deeper dive into the subject of the operational period briefing so you can know what it is and how it works. We hope that by the end of the article, you will already have comprehensive knowledge that will take you a step further in acing your exam. So, let’s go!
Which of the Following Best Describes the Operational Period Briefing
When this question comes up, typical options that usually follow it most of the times are:
- A) Sets forth the specific tasks, reporting relationships, and expectations for support staff
- B) Provides an orientation to individual resources at the beginning of their assignments
- C) Helps keep the public and media informed about the incident status and operational accomplishments
- D) Presents the Incident Action Plan (IAP) for the upcoming period to supervisory personnel.
Looking at these options, the correct answer here is D. Presents the Incident Action Plan (IAP) for the upcoming period to supervisory personnel. Now let’s explain the answer.
Explanation
The operational period briefing is an important element of the Incident Command System (ICS), which is a standardized approach used by emergency responders to manage incidents. The operational period briefing is held at the beginning of each operational period and is conducted by the Incident Commander or their designee.
During the operational period briefing, the Incident Commander presents the Incident Action Plan (IAP) for the upcoming period to supervisory personnel.
The IAP outlines the incident objectives, the strategies and tactics to be employed, and the specific assignments for each resource. It also provides a briefing on safety issues, communication protocols, and other important information.
Option A is incorrect because setting forth specific tasks and reporting relationships is the responsibility of the Incident Commander and is typically done during the planning phase of the incident.
At the same time, providing an orientation to individual resources, which is option B is also incorrect because that is also typically done during the mobilization and demobilization process, not during the operational period briefing.
Now that we have the answer to the question, ‘Which of the following best describes the operational period briefing,’ let’s move you a bit forward by letting you see what an operational briefing period really is and who gets to participate in it.
What Is Operational Period Briefing, and Who Facilitates It?
The operational period briefing (OPB) is a critical component of the Incident Command System (ICS) used by emergency responders to manage incidents.
The OPB is a meeting that takes place at the beginning of each operational period, typically every 12-24 hours, and is facilitated by the Incident Commander (IC) or their designee.
What Is the Purpose of Operational Period Briefing?
The purpose of the operational period briefing (OPB) is to provide a structured forum for the Incident Commander (IC) or their designee to communicate the Incident Action Plan (IAP) for the upcoming period to supervisory personnel.
The IAP usually consists of the objectives and strategies to implement for the next operational period. It also usually contains specific assignments for each resource. The briefing also covers any changes in the incident situation and any safety concerns that need to be addressed.
One of the primary purposes of the OPB is to ensure that supervisory personnel are aware of their roles and responsibilities for the upcoming period. It is also used to promote communication and collaboration between the Incident Management Team (IMT) and supervisory personnel.
The briefing provides an opportunity for the IMT to obtain feedback and input from those in attendance, which can help to inform decision-making and improve the overall effectiveness of the incident response.
Who Are the People Qualified to Attend the Operational Briefing?
The people qualified to attend the operational period briefing are typically key members of the Incident Management Team (IMT). These include the:
- Operations Section Chief
- Planning Section Chief
- Logistics Section Chief
- Finance/Administration Section Chief
Additionally, any other relevant stakeholders involved in the incident response may also attend, such as representatives from cooperating agencies or organizations. The IC or their designee who is facilitating the briefing gets to determine who is qualified to attend based on their role and responsibilities in the incident response.
How Long Does An Operational Briefing Last?
The length of an operational period briefing (OPB) can vary depending on the complexity and scope of the incident. In general, an OPB typically lasts between 30 minutes to one hour.
However, in some cases, the briefing may need to be longer to ensure that all relevant information is communicated and understood by attendees.
What Factors Mainly Facilitate the Operational Period Briefing?
Still in the bid to help you provide a complete understanding of the question, ‘Which of the following best describes the operational period briefing,’ let’s look at what contributes to the success of the OPB. Well, many factors can come together to make the meeting a successful one.
They ensure the meeting is both successful and effective. Let’s take a look at some of them:
1. Clear communication channels
Effective communication is critical during an incident response, and clear communication channels are essential to facilitate the OPB. The Incident Commander (IC) must ensure that all attendees are aware of the communication protocols and channels that will be used during the briefing.
2. Timeliness
The OPB should be held at the beginning of each operational period. Holding the briefing in a timely manner ensures that all attendees are aware of any changes to the incident situation and any new objectives, strategies, and tactics for the upcoming period.
3. Preparation
The IC or their designee must be adequately prepared for the OPB to ensure that it is conducted efficiently and effectively. This includes reviewing the Incident Action Plan (IAP) for the upcoming period and any other relevant information to be presented during the briefing.
4. Engagement
The OPB should be an interactive forum that encourages engagement and participation from all attendees. This will usually serve as a good way to promote communication and collaboration between the Incident Management Team (IMT) and supervisory personnel. At the same time, it ensures that all attendees are aware of their roles and responsibilities.
5. Flexibility
The IC or their designee must be flexible during the OPB and able to adapt to changing circumstances as needed. Most times, this can come in form of an adjustment to the briefing agenda or addressing unexpected issues or concerns that arise during the briefing.
What Are Some Challenges to Expect?
During the operational period briefing, there are some challenges that can arise and should be anticipated by the Incident Commander. Some of the challenges that may be encountered during the OPB include:
- Time constraints: The OPB is typically held at the beginning of each operational period, and there may be limited time available to communicate all relevant information to attendees.
- Information overload: There may be a lot of information to communicate during the OPB, and it can be challenging to present it in a clear and concise manner.
- Language barriers: In a multi-lingual environment, language barriers may present a challenge when communicating information during the OPB.
- Technical difficulties: Technical difficulties with audio/visual equipment or other communication tools can disrupt the flow of the OPB.
- Conflict or disagreement: Attendees may have different opinions or ideas on how to proceed with the incident response. And this can lead to conflict or disagreement during the OPB.
- Lack of engagement: Attendees may not be fully engaged or attentive during the OPB, which can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunications.
The IC or their designee must anticipate these challenges and take steps to address them during the OPB to ensure that all attendees have a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities for the upcoming operational period.
Clear communication, active listening, and flexibility are key to overcoming these challenges and promoting effective incident management.
Final Note
Now we believe you should have a problem answering this question even if it shows up in your final exam. We already helped you see what an operational period briefing is and the purpose it serves in incident management.
We have seen who the type of people that can be present are and what role of each of them should be. I also took our time to help you see some challenges the IC can expect as well as some effective steps they can take to make sure everything goes as planned and have a successful operational period briefing.
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