NIMS/ICS Background History

While a local government handles most emergencies, local government may need assistance from neighboring jurisdictions, the State, and/or the Federal government when a major incident overwhelms its resources.

The National Incident Management System (NIMS) was developed, under a presidential directive, so responders from different jurisdictions and disciplines can work together better to respond to natural disasters and emergencies, including acts of terrorism.

State, Territorial, Tribal, and Local jurisdictions will be required to meet the FY 2007 NIMS implementation requirements (via ICS training) as a condition of receiving federal preparedness funding assistance (including DHS & FEMA grants) FY 2008.

Through Incident Command System (ICS) training, NIMS provides a unified approach to incident management; standard command and management structures; and emphasis on preparedness, mutual aid and resource management.

It is important to recognize that NIMS implementation is a dynamic system, and the doctrine and implementation requirements will continue to evolve as our prevention, preparedness, response and recovery capabilities improve and our homeland security landscape changes. New personnel will continue to need NIMS training, and NIMS processes will still have to be exercised in future years.

On June 15, 2005, the Cameron County Commissioners' Court unanimously adopted NIMS as the standard for incident management (both policy and organizational/operational levels) in the County. 

NIMS/ICS Course Training

All training, regardless of setting (online or classroom), is FREE!

Because the majority of the employees are considered "front-line" staff (first responders, i.e. law enforcement, public works, public heath, etc.) as per their job description, they would only be required to take certain "basic" courses that provide a general overview of the ICS structure. 

On the other hand, their respective superiors (first line supervisors, middle-management, etc.) would not only be required to take the courses that are required to be taken by "front-line" staff but also additional courses.

The "basic" courses can be taken via one of two settings: online (24/7) or classroom (limited offering).

Most of the "advanced" courses are available only in a classroom setting.

NIMS/ICS Course Training Guidelines
(based in part, but not exclusively, on current job description) click here