Emergency Response: Transitioning from NOW to NEXT

Strategic Incident Management Team Effective Planning for Sustained Incident Management

By Troy Lutrick, CEM

Introduction

First responders are inherently trained to operate in the moment—to respond rapidly, decisively, and effectively to unfolding emergencies. This reactive focus on the NOW is essential to saving lives and stabilizing chaos. However, as an incident evolves beyond the initial moments, a critical shift must occur: the transition from reacting to what’s in front of us to preparing for what’s coming next.

This transition—from NOW to NEXT—is one of the most challenging elements of sustained incident management. Leaders must move beyond the immediacy of tactical response to begin forecasting and shaping future operations. To guide this transition, ask yourself:

• Am I operating in the NOW (reactive), the NEXT (proactive), or balancing both?

• Where are we in the emergency planning timeline—Left of Boom or Right of Boom?

• What are we not thinking about NOW that could impact us if we fail to anticipate and prepare for the NEXT?

Understanding NOW and NEXT

The NOW phase encompasses the immediate deployment of resources into the Hot Zone. Initial responders arrive in "code-3 capable" units, fire engines, ambulances, command vehicles, and specialty apparatus, all focused-on life safety, threat mitigation, and incident stabilization. This is the essence of the Operations Section during the first hours of an incident.

While the focus on NOW is vital, any incident that extends beyond the initial response window will require a deliberate pivot. Leaders must begin thinking strategically and proactively preparing for future operational periods that will demand new resources, fresh personnel, and a broader, more sustainable plan of action.

This is the NEXT.

Bridging the Gap: From Response to Sustained Operations

As incidents continue, the overlapping space between NOW and NEXT becomes more complex. Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs), Planning Sections, and coordination units must initiate forward planning, even as response units remain actively engaged.

This phase marks the critical development of:

• Leader’s Intent

• Incident Priorities

• Management and Control Objectives

• Strategic Plans → Operational Tactics → Specific Tasks

This forward-looking approach culminates in the creation of the Incident Action Plan (IAP), guiding the operational tempo beyond the immediacy of the first few hours.

Key Considerations in the NEXT Phase

Effective management of the NEXT requires attention to several essential—but often overlooked—components:

• Responder rehabilitation and logistical support

• Replenishment of critical supplies and equipment

• Technical specialist resource ordering and integration

• Work-rest cycle management to prevent burnout

• Coordinated shift changes and operational briefings

• Financial tracking and cost-share coordination across agencies

These elements are often deprioritized because they pull attention away from active operations. To mitigate this, consider assigning a Planning-Ops Liaison or a Deputy Ops – Planning position. This role collaborates closely with Field Operations on current needs while aligning with the Planning Section to build out the NEXT operational period.

Conclusion

The shift from NOW to NEXT is more than a change in tempo—it’s a shift in mindset. Emergency response leaders must be disciplined in transitioning from reactive action to proactive coordination, ensuring sustainability and resilience over the life of the incident.

By recognizing and intentionally managing this transition, we ensure that today’s response does not compromise tomorrow’s operations. Balancing the immediacy of the NOW with the foresight of the NEXT is not just good practice—it’s essential for effective incident management.

© 2025 ICS Consultants LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Republished with permission for EMN Media.