E N D
This document is contained within the Fire Management Toolbox on Wilderness.net. Since other related resources found in this toolbox may be of interest, you can visit this toolbox by visiting the following URL: http://www.wilderness.net/index.cfm?fuse=toolboxes&sec=fire. All toolboxes are products of the Arthur Carhart National Wilderness Training Center.
Interagency WildernessResource Advisor TrainingFebruary 27-29, 2007 Fire Information
Objectives • Describe the purpose and importance of incident information. • Describe the role and responsibility of the Public Information Officer in incident management. • Understand the role of resource advisor with incident information and media (interview tips).
Introduction Wildland fires and other natural disasters are major news and attract considerable public and media attention. The public will judge us as much on how we respond to the crisis as the crisis itself.
Incident Information We have a responsibility to inform the public. Public support is vital.
Role of PIO • Primary responsibility: • Provide timely and accurate information. • Information Source • Rumor control • Pulse • Messages
Role of PIO • Considerations: • Greater public awareness & concern about environmental issues • More environmental constraints. • Political constraints • Distrust of government agencies
Role of Resource Advisor Pivotal role Represent agency administrator
Role of Resource Advisor Advocates for the environment MIST- Minimum Impact Suppression Tactics
Community Relations Traumatic events for people and communities Serious short and long term effects
Community Relations Information serves three main functions: People are informed and involved. Opportunity to express concerns, needs and issues. Build trustful relationships.
Role of Media Perception is reality. Public concerns can influence incident management and public land management. Allies, not adversaries. Always be the first, best, and most credible source of your own bad news.
Role of Media Wide reach and influence a vast audience. Serve as one of several key sources of information. Reporters provide a link between incident managers and the public. “The media have a voracious appetite. If you don’t feed them, they will look for garbage.”
Elements of a good interview Prepare and practice – PIO can coach Use short answers, make your point and be concise. Silent pauses are OK Use descriptive words. Don’t speculate “I think we’re glazing eyes all across America.” - Ted Koppel, ABC News
Elements of a good Interview Link to audience – use media to get your message out Avoid jargon and acronyms If you stumble, ask to start over Be professional and look the part
Five F’s Successful relations with the news media: Fast – short and to the point Factual – nothing but the facts Frank - direct Fair - honest Friendly - cooperative
Summary Incident Information Function: Provide prompt and accurate information (media, communities, employees, incident personnel). Relationships – pulse of the community Media relations – leave better than before Issues management – political, social, environmental etc.