Which SEMS level encompasses multiple jurisdictions and mutual aid and includes the involvement of MHOAC?

• A. Field level
• B. Local level
• C. Operational level
• D. Regional level

Answer: (C)

SEMS levels define who coordinates across jurisdictions and how mutual aid is managed. The level that brings together multiple jurisdictions within a defined area and coordinates mutual aid through the Mutual Aid Coordinating Authority is the Operational level. This level, often called the Operational Area, sits between on-scene field operations and broader regional coordination, and it brings multiple agencies from more than one jurisdiction into a single, coordinated effort. The MHOAC works within this level to request and allocate resources across the participating jurisdictions, ensuring a unified approach to objectives, staffing, and logistics across the area. By contrast, the field level is the on-scene response, the local level involves a single jurisdiction’s coordination, and the regional level covers broader, multi-area coordination beyond a single operational area.