Which group includes the Public Information Officer (PIO) under NIMS/ICS command staff?

• A. Operations Staff
• B. General Staff
• C. Command Staff
• D. Logistics Staff

Answer: (C)

The Public Information Officer (PIO) is a key role within the command staff of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and the Incident Command System (ICS). This designation is critical because the command staff is responsible for overseeing the incident management process and ensuring effective communication both internally among responders and externally to the public.

The PIO specifically manages communication with the public and media, providing accurate information about the incident while also safeguarding the interests of the organization and maintaining public trust. As a member of the command staff, the PIO works closely with the Incident Commander and other command staff members to develop unified messaging and respond to inquiries regarding the ongoing incident.

This structure is designed to ensure that there's a clear chain of command and specialization of functions, allowing for more efficient incident management. Understanding the PIO's role helps in emphasizing the importance of communication during crises, which is vital for operational success and community support.