Big news for maritime safety! The new U.S. Coast Guard Incident Management Handbook (IMH) 2025 is now available. This updated guide builds on the firm foundation of previous versions, especially the 2014 handbook, to boost the Coast Guard’s incident response capabilities and strengthen partnerships.
Why a New Handbook?
The maritime world is constantly changing. From complex cyber threats to the need for better teamwork with national and international partners, the demands on the Coast Guard’s incident management system are more dynamic than ever. The 2025 IMH tackles these modern challenges head-on, adding the latest National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS) best practices.
It is designed to assist Coast Guard personnel in using the ICS during response operations. The IMH is intended to be an easy reference job aid for responders. It is not a policy document, but rather guidance for response personnel. During the development of the IMH, it was recognized that eighty percent of all response operations share common principles, procedures, and processes. The other twenty percent of response operations are unique to the type of incident, such as a search and rescue case or an oil spill. The handbook is laid out so that the generic information applicable to all responses is presented up-front.
Updates and Highlights of the 2025 IMH:
- Alignment with Updated NIMS Doctrine: This document incorporates the latest changes to ensure standardized response protocols across federal, state, and local partners.
- Enhanced Response Strategies for Severe Weather: Provides comprehensive guidelines for severe weather events and Presidentially Declared Disasters to improve preparedness and operational effectiveness.
- Cyber Incident Response Integration: Includes updated protocols for managing cyber-related events, emphasizing cybersecurity measures for protecting critical infrastructure.
- Utilization of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS): This section highlights the role of UAS in improving situational awareness, data collection, and response efficiency.
- Focus on Responder Resilience: This approach emphasizes critical incident stress management (CISM) and responder resilience, offering resources to support personnel’s mental health and well-being.
The U.S. Coast Guard Incident Management Handbook 2025 shows the service’s commitment to readiness and excellence. It’s a proactive step to adapt to a changing operational environment and ensure the safety and security of our waterways. Understanding and using this new handbook will be vital for all responders and maritime professionals.
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About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).
Posted by Trudy Hawkins 
The importance of rules and regulations relative to the navigation of all shapes and sizes of ships, from fishing boat pleasure dinghies to elegant yachts to large container ships, is critical to the safe operation of military, commercial, and personal vessels.
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Trudy Hawkins
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