How does the Assessment phase differ from the Response phase in an incident?

The Assessment phase primarily involves gathering and analyzing information about the incident, which helps responders understand the situation's dynamics, scope, and potential risks. This phase is critical for informing leaders about the resources required, the best course of action, and the overall strategy for managing the incident. It lays the groundwork for effective incident management by ensuring that decision-makers have all the relevant data.

In contrast, the Response phase revolves around the implementation of plans and actions designed to address the incident. Responders actively engage in executing strategies, mobilizing resources, and addressing immediate needs in the field. This phase is characterized by taking decisive actions based on the insights gained during the Assessment phase.

The distinction emphasizes that Assessment is about understanding the situation while Response is about taking action based on that understanding.