"Procedures and protocols should detail the specific actions that can be taken to implement a plan or system. All emergency management/response personnel and their affiliated organizations should develop procedures and protocols that translate into specific action-oriented checklists for use during incident response operations, including how the organizations will accomplish their assigned tasks. Procedures are documented and implemented with: checklists; resource listings; maps, charts, and other pertinent data; mechanisms for notifying staff; processes for obtaining and using equipment, supplies, and vehicles; methods of obtaining mutual aid agreements and/or assistance agreements; mechanisms for reporting information to Department Operations Centers (DOC) and EOCs; and communications operating instructions, including connectivity among governments, the private sector, and NGOs. There are four standard levels of procedural documents: Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) or Operations Manual: Complete reference document that provides the purpose, authorities, duration, and details for the preferred method of performing a single function or a number of interrelated functions in a uniform manner. Field Operations Guide or Incident Management Handbook: Durable pocket or desk guide that contains essential information required to perform specific assignments or functions. Mobilization Guide: Reference document used by agencies/organizations outlining agreements, processes, and procedures used by all participating organizations for activating, assembling, and transporting resources. Job Aid: Checklist or other visual aid intended to ensure that specific steps of completing a task or assignment are accomplished. Job aids may also serve as training aids to teach how to complete specific job tasks. Protocols are sets of established guidelines for actions (which may be designated by individuals, teams, functions, or capabilities) under various specified conditions. Establishing protocols provides for the standing orders, authorizations, and delegations necessary to permit the rapid execution of a task, function, or a number of interrelated functions without seeking permission to do so. Based on training and delegation of authority, protocols permit specific personnel to assess the situation presented, take immediate steps to intervene, and escalate their efforts to a specific level before further guidance or authorizations are required". (FEMA, National Incident Management System (FEMA 501/Draft), August 2007, p. 19)