Final answer:
In the Incident Command System, the standard protocol is to activate the Planning Section Chief when a Resources Unit is activated, but flexibility in smaller incidents may allow for the Resources Unit to operate independently.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question is related to the Incident Command System (ICS), which is a standardized approach to the command, control, and coordination of emergency response. The question asks if a Resources Unit can be activated without simultaneously activating the Planning Section Chief. In ICS, it is generally preferred that when a section is activated, its chief is also activated to ensure proper oversight and coordination. However, the flexibility of ICS allows for adaptations to the scale of the incident.
Therefore, it might be possible for a Resources Unit to operate without the direct supervision of a Planning Section Chief, especially in smaller-scale incidents or when the incident's complexity does not warrant a full activation. However, this is not the standard protocol and could potentially lead to communication and efficiency issues within the incident management structure.