After Action Report Format

From Megawiki

An After Action Report serves the following important functions: - Source for documentation of response or drill activities. - Identification of problems/successes during emergency or training operations. - Analysis of the effectiveness of ICS components. - Describes and defines a plan of action for implementing improvements.

Responsibility for After Action Reports The ICS official in command (or designee) of the emergency or exercise will be responsible for completing the After Action Report. Other members of the ICS organization may also be required to complete reports respective to their assignment. The ICS official will distribute the report as needed.

Contents of After Action Reports

AFTER ACTION REPORT OUTLINE i. Introduction and Background

ii. Type/location of Event / Drill / Exercise

iii. Description of Event / Drill / Exercise

iv. Chronological Summary of Event / Drill / Exercise

v. Response at certain Levels (as appropriate):

Include a summary, conclusions, the field response, and other local, operational area, regional, state or federal response.

vi. Interacting Systems, Agencies, and Programs: Include mutual aid systems (law enforcement, fire/rescue, medical, etc.); cooperating entities (utilities, American Red Cross, university departments, etc.); telecommunications and media interactions.

vii. Improvements, Conclusions, Recommendations: As applicable, include a description of actions taken, assignments, associated costs or budget, timetable for completion or correction, and follow-up responsibility.

viii. Training Needs

ix. Recovery Activities (as applicable)

x. References: Maps, charts, training materials, etc.

B. AFTER ACTION REPORT SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

Many types of documentation might be included. Some recommended types include the following:

• Action plans written during operational activities or training exercises.
• ICS/EOC forms
• Unit activity logs and journals
• Written messages
• Function and position checklists
• Public information and media reports
• FEMA-developed forms
• Other forms or documents used during an emergency or training exercise.