NIMS Alert



NA: 005-05
The NIMS Integration Center, April 4, 2005
NIMS-Integration-Center@dhs.gov
202-646-3850

RESOURCE TYPING GUIDANCE

On October 20, 2004, FEMA and the NIMS Integration Center (NIC) released the National Mutual Aid 
Glossary of Terms and Definitions and the Resource Typing Definitions for 120 different kinds of 
resources.  The resource typing definitions were prepared by working groups consisting of subject matter 
experts and Federal, State, and local responders who would be “using” the definitions to inventory their 
assets and to support mutual aid requests. In addition to the persons directly involved in the working 
groups, there were over 300 corresponding members who reviewed working drafts and participated in the 
formation of these definitions.  The Glossary and Resource Typed Definitions can be accessed at 
www.fema.gov/nims/mutual_aid.shtm. 

Since the release of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and the National Response Plan 
(NRP), there has been more intense focus on these definitions since resource typing and mutual aid are 
key components of NIMS. Some States and localities are looking at the resource typing definitions, 
concluding that there are differences and initiating new resource typing definitions that better reflect their 
needs. NIMS is based on the need for standard definitions and practices. Developing separate definitions 
will in effect negate the fundamental idea that all responders should be using common definitions when 
ordering or receiving assets though mutual aid.  Systems that do not conform to these common definitions 
are not compliant with NIMS. 

The NIMS Integration Center recognizes that in some instances changes need to be made to the current 
definitions and in other instances entire new definitions may be created.  The NIMS Integration Center 
will facilitate this process to ensure that we maintain a consistent nationwide approach to resource typing 
and consistency across the nation. 

Recommend changes or additions will be compiled and fed into the resource typing working groups for 
consideration on a quarterly basis. Working group membership will remain dynamic so that we can have 
leaders in these function areas either directly represented in the group or include a corresponding 
member(s).

RESOURCE TYPING FORM INSTRUCTIONS

Please complete the resource typing form in its entirety and submit to NIMS-Integration-Center@dhs.gov 
to be processed. It may be accessed from the NIMS Homepage, listed under “New from the NIMS 
Integration Center.” Please note it is important to list the names and contact information of individuals you 
recommend the NIC should include when addressing your comment/recommendation.  If you have any questions or 
problems downloading the form, please contact NIMS-Integration-Center@dhs.gov.