What critical document should each incident have regarding procurement?

A written procurement plan detailing processes and authorities is essential for managing any incident effectively. This document outlines the specific procedures and protocols that govern procurement activities in the context of an incident. It defines roles, responsibilities, and authority levels for making purchases and securing services, ensuring that all actions taken are consistent, legal, and adhere to agency guidelines.

Having this plan in place helps to streamline procurement processes, prevent misunderstandings, and ensure that everyone involved is aware of how procurement decisions should be made. It reduces the likelihood of complications or delays caused by miscommunication or lack of clarity about who has the authority to make purchases. This formal approach also supports accountability and enables accurate documentation for future audits and evaluations.

The other options do not provide the same level of structure or assurance. A verbal agreement lacks the specificity and enforceability of a written document. A summary of past procurement activities may be useful for reference but does not guide current actions. A request for proposals submitted to local vendors is a step in the procurement process but does not encompass the comprehensive planning and framework that a written procurement plan provides. Thus, having a well-defined procurement plan is a critical component of effective incident management.