What is the primary function of the finance/administration section chief during an incident?

The primary function of the finance/administration section chief during an incident is to maintain incident costs and financial records. This role is crucial for tracking the expenditures accrued during the response to an incident, ensuring that all financial transactions are documented accurately for accountability and reimbursement purposes. The finance/administration section also works to manage contracts, monitor costs, and prepare for financial reporting. This function is essential for transparency and effective resource management, particularly when federal or state funding is involved in disaster response and recovery efforts.

In the context of an incident, the responsibilities of the finance/administration section chief are focused on the administrative and financial implications of the response, which sets this role apart from others that have tactical or operational responsibilities. The ordering of resources and provision of facilities, development of incident action plans, and management of tactical activities fall under the purview of other section chiefs within the incident command structure.