What does the cost unit primarily focus on during an incident?

The focus of the cost unit during an incident is on tracking and analyzing cost-related data. This unit plays a critical role in understanding the financial implications of an incident response and ensuring that all expenditures are appropriately documented and analyzed. By monitoring costs associated with personnel, equipment, materials, and facilities, the cost unit helps to provide an accurate picture of the fiscal impact of the incident. This information is essential for budgetary considerations, future planning, and resource allocation.

While providing medical assistance, setting up facilities, and determining food and water needs are important tasks during an incident, they do not fall under the primary responsibilities of the cost unit. These tasks are typically managed by other functional units such as medical services, logistics, and operations, which handle the immediate and tangible needs of the incident response rather than the financial aspects. The cost unit's data analysis is vital for insights into the efficiency and effectiveness of resource use throughout the incident.