How long after realization that a case is, or could potentially be, a critical incident shall notification be made to the National Command Center?

How long after realization that a case is, or could potentially be, a critical incident shall notification be made to the National Command Center?

• A. Within 5 minutes
• B. Within 15 minutes
• C. Within 30 minutes
• D. Immediately after confirmation

Answer: (A)

Timely escalation is essential whenever a case could become a critical incident. The moment you realize a case is, or could be, critical, you should notify the National Command Center within five minutes. This rapid notice allows command to begin coordinating resources, establish oversight, and communicate with other agencies without delay. Waiting longer—such as fifteen or thirty minutes—reduces the lead time for an organized response and can compromise safety and effectiveness. Demanding confirmation before notifying can cause delays, while signaling immediately after confirmation misses the urgency that affects initial decisions and risk mitigation. Therefore, the best practice is to alert within five minutes of realizing the potential severity.

Timely escalation is essential whenever a case could become a critical incident. The moment you realize a case is, or could be, critical, you should notify the National Command Center within five minutes. This rapid notice allows command to begin coordinating resources, establish oversight, and communicate with other agencies without delay. Waiting longer—such as fifteen or thirty minutes—reduces the lead time for an organized response and can compromise safety and effectiveness. Demanding confirmation before notifying can cause delays, while signaling immediately after confirmation misses the urgency that affects initial decisions and risk mitigation. Therefore, the best practice is to alert within five minutes of realizing the potential severity.