| Media Topics |
Strategies - Recommendations for Handling Situations |
| Do |
· Refer media Inquires to a designated spokesperson or Public Information Officer, if available . If there is not one available, refer them to the established Media Hotline, if established . Use approved talking points or media statements as necessary - always put safety first . Immediately report media inquires to the incident management structure · Assume the cameras and microphones are always on · Speak factually and concisely . Provide short to the point answers . Keep you responses simple and absent of technical terminology or acronyms . Designate a central location for reporters and media to get pictures and conduct interviews . Refer technical questions to experts on your staff . Refer questions unrelated to the incident to the Public Information staff for answering · Coordinate video/picture opportunities covering the incident activities and field operations · Have reporters/media develop a process for information and media sharing after overflights and site visits |
| Don't |
· Speculate on information you are absolutely sure on · Be afraid to say, "I don't know" · Say "no comment" · Speak off the record · Use names of affected persons until authorized to do so · Lie or attempt to deceive . Use humor as this may present as insensitive to viewers · Interject personal opinion · Answer technical questions you are not qualified to answer |
| Media Holding Statements, Key Messages, Bridging Statements |
. Convey concern over the incident and its impacts to citizens, the environment, and the community . Promote safety as the number one concern in conducting response operations . Offer apologies for the incident and deliver commitment to diligently work to minimize impacts of the incident . Name cooperating and assisting agencies and your commitment to partner in response efforts . Issue media and claim hotline numbers to connect with affected stakeholders 197 |
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