ICS: Communication Under Stress

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Plain-Language Radio and Message Habits That Save Time and Prevent Confusion

When emergencies hit, the very first thing to break down is communication. People talk fast, talk over one another, forget details, or assume others know what they mean. In the Incident Command System (ICS), the antidote is simple: plain language and disciplined message habits. When the pressure rises, simplicity saves time—and sometimes lives.

The ICS Concept: Clear, Plain-Language Communication

ICS requires all responders to use plain English, short messages, and a strict “one speaker at a time” rule—especially over radios. Codes, slang, and long explanations create confusion. Clear communication removes assumptions and ensures everyone receives the same information the same way.

This doesn’t just apply to firefighters and emergency managers. Families, churches, and neighborhood groups benefit just as much from predictable, disciplined communication techniques.

Why It Matters

Communication under stress becomes messy because:

  • People speak before thinking.
  • Details get lost or distorted.
  • Background noise masks critical information.
  • Emotions become louder than reason.

Good communication turns chaos into coordination. ICS teaches habits that work in every situation:

  • Say only what matters.
  • Verify what you heard.
  • Speak slowly, even when the situation isn’t.
  • Use names, locations, and tasks—no filler.

These habits reduce errors and allow leaders to focus on solutions rather than repeating instructions.

Great Plains Examples

1. Tornado Damage Blocking a County Road

A neighbor calls out over radio: “Uh, yeah, the big tree fell, and it’s a mess out here.” This message gives no usable information.

ICS plain-language version:

“Base, this is North Team. One oak tree blocking County Road 125 at the creek crossing. No injuries. We need chainsaws and a second team.”

2. Grassfire Approaching from the West

Panic message: “It’s coming fast! It’s everywhere!”

ICS-style message:

“Command, this is Lookout. Grassfire 300 yards west of the Patterson property, moving east with 20 mph winds. Evacuation recommended within 10 minutes.”

3. Multi-Family Power Outage During Subzero Temperatures

Poor communication can lead to dangerous assumptions, like believing a home has heat when it doesn’t. A simple status check using ICS habits makes the difference:

“Status check: Smith home—no heat, one generator. Thompson home—heat restored. Caldwell home—no power, needs blankets.”

Short, actionable, clear.

Practical Steps: How to Communicate the ICS Way

  1. Use Plain Language. No codes. No jargon. Say what you see.
  2. Identify Yourself First. Example: “South Team to Command” or “Daniel to Mom”.
  3. State Location, Issue, and Need. This turns rambling into clarity.
  4. Keep Messages Short. A long message is usually an unclear message.
  5. Use Read-Backs. “Copy: you need fuel at the church parking lot.” This prevents mistakes.
  6. Pause Before Speaking. If you speak fast under stress, slow down deliberately.
  7. Practice During Calm Times. Families can rehearse simple radio exchanges during camping trips or drills.

The “Five-Part Message”

ICS trainers often teach a simple message format that works for both radios and face-to-face communication:

1. Who you are 2. Where you are 3. What you see 4. What you’re doing 5. What you need

Even young children can learn this structure—and it dramatically reduces miscommunication in emergencies.

📘 This article is part of the Prepper ICS Training Series.
View the full schedule and resources at the ICS Training Home Page.

© 2025 Prepper on the Plains — All rights reserved.

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