The first person responding to an escalating event needs to establish an ICS 211 Incident Check-in List or equivalent.

Dispatch 

Of course, most emergencies trigger from a call to 911 resulting in a flurry of emergency, computer-aided dispatches captured on an electronic dispatch log.

However, once The Crisis Response Leadership Sequence™ has moved from the reaction phase to the managed phase, resources will cease being dispatched and will start arriving at a Staging Area or other Incident Facility to report.

It is during this check-in process that each responder and each team should sign in on an ICS 211.  The sooner this form is initiated, the easier it will be for everyone else to follow suit.

The ICS 211 also provides a helpful job aid should the need arise to evacuate an area or other reason to establish accountability.

Most organized training classes, controlled access buildings, etc. have a sign-in form procedure already so adapting one for a response should be familiar.

T-Cards

Akin to the Check-in List is a card system called the ICS 219 Resource Status Card, or “T-Card” because it’s shaped like the letter “T.”  T-Cards are color-coded and list each resource, vehicle, etc. used by the incident.  

• The Resource Unit places them on a large board with slots that visually display the status and location of each resource.  
• T-Cards are not used much anymore but remain popular, especially for wildland firefighters who usually have extensive experience with them.

Almost any form that captures a list of resources that have checked-in is adequate.