An incident is an occurrence, either caused by humans or nature, that requires immediate response actions to prevent or minimize loss of life or damage to property and/or the environment.  Large-scale incidents typically involve multiple response agencies and local governments.  Incidents often span a number of days or weeks.  The EOC provides a common location for large-scale incident management.

The EOC coordinates resource support for the incident commander and first responders (fire, police, public works and other response agencies) at the scene of the incident.  The incident commander at the scene directs actions to protect life, property and stabilize the incident.

The EOC collects, processes and disseminates information to elected officials, city staff, area residents, businesses, schools, visitors and the media. 

Additional EOC functions include: