Mutual aid
agreements are strongly encouraged by the federal government under the National
Incident Management System (NIMS). The National Mutual Aid and Resource
Management Initiative established under NIMS provides a comprehensive,
integrated national mutual aid and resource management system. All mutual aid
agreements must incorporate NIMS and the Incident Management System (ICS). The
responsibility of preparedness is tasked to the federal, state, local, and
tribal agencies, also to include private, nongovernmental organizations and
citizens. The Nevada Intrastate Mutual Aid System (IMAS) is in accordance with
the Presidential Policy Directive 8 to achieve all-hazards national
preparedness.