“A clear, concise IAP template is essential to guide the initial incident management decision process and the continuing collective planning activities of incident management teams. The planning process should provide the following: (1) current information that accurately describes the incident situation and resource status; (2) predictions of the probable course of events; (3) alternative strategies to attain critical incident objectives; and (4) an accurate, realistic IAP for the next operational period. Five primary phases should be followed in sequence to ensure a comprehensive IAP. These phases are designed to enable the accomplishment of incident objectives within a specified time. The IAP must provide clear strategic direction and include a comprehensive listing of the tactics, resources, reserves, and support required to accomplish each overarching incident objective. The comprehensive IAP will state the sequence of events in a coordinated way for achieving multiple incident objectives. However, the IAP is a living document prepared based on the best available information at the time of the planning meeting. Planning meetings should not be delayed in anticipation of future information…. The five primary phases in the planning process are: (1) to understand the situation; (2) establish incident objectives and strategy; (3) develop the plan; (4) prepare and disseminate the plan; and (5) execute, evaluate, and revise the plan”. (FEMA, National Incident Management System (FEMA 501/Draft), August 2007, p. 120)