There probably aren't any perfect systems, but ICS at least sounds REASONABLE. In the type of incident you indicated, I would say, "Cut the crap and get the job done".

I don't have direct contact with the problems that you face on a regular basis, but when egos get in the way, everyone wants to be "boss", communications are useless, people refuse to work together, etc, and then I read afterward that the foulups caused people to die, it makes me want to pound someone.

And the responders shouldn't even have to be aware that the media are anywhere nearby. Allowing them into a disaster site is beyond ridiculous. Well.... maybe if all the victims are out and the building roof is ready to collapse, let them go in.... I CAN make exceptions!

OTOH, afterward, there wouldn't be anyone there to stick a camera and microphone in a mother's face and ask, "How do you feel about having three of your children die in that fire?" What a shame.... <img src="/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />

Sue