In the incident roles framework, what does the acronym CLEAR stand for?

• A. Collision, Lead, Evaluate, Act, Reopen
• B. Collision, Lead, Execute, Act, Release
• C. Collision, Link, Evaluate, Act, Reopen
• D. Collision, Lead, Examine, Act, Reopen

Answer: (A)

In the incident roles framework, CLEAR guides how to manage a scene step by step. Collision marks the recognition of the incident type and the need to establish a safe, controlled starting point for response. Lead means appointing or confirming who is in charge to coordinate actions, people, and communications. Evaluate is about assessing the situation: hazards, casualties, traffic, and resources, to understand the risks and priorities. Act is the implementation phase—carrying out the determined actions, such as securing the scene, giving aid, redirecting traffic, and bringing in needed support. Reopen means that once risks are controlled and it’s safe, you reopen the route and wrap up, reassessing to ensure nothing was missed and continuing monitoring as needed. The other options don’t fit this sequence because they use terms that don’t align with the established steps of recognizing, leading, assessing, acting, and then reopening the scene.