What does the unified command principle allow agencies to do during an incident?

The unified command principle is designed to facilitate effective leadership and coordination among different agencies during an incident response. By allowing agencies to collaborate while still maintaining their individual authorities, the unified command principle enhances communication and resource-sharing efforts.

This principle is particularly essential in complex situations that involve multiple jurisdictions or agencies. It ensures that all entities can come together, share information, and strategize on a unified response without diminishing their operational autonomy. This collaborative framework does not require agencies to surrender their command, thus ensuring that they can work together effectively while still adhering to their specific roles and responsibilities.

The other choices suggest a primarily independent or restrictive approach that does not align with the cooperative intent of the unified command principle, which is to maximize the effectiveness of a collective response through collaboration.