Montgomery County, MD Leads The Way
The recent Swine Flu H1N1 Pandemic has caused a number of agencies to revisit their risk communications plans, and try to address the need to keep the public informed during emergencies.
For a lot of smaller offices, this often means that someone is putting on yet another hat, and attempting to become a Public Information Officer (PIO) overnight. Most recognize the need for effective communication with the public, but are unsure of how to get started.
A free guide that we often recommend is available from the Montgomery County, MD Department of Health & Human Services. It’s called, “Public Health Emergency Preparedness” and it contains a quick guide, and a lot of good sample check-lists.
While you’re on their web site, also take a look at their equally well-written PowerPoint Presentation on Pandemic flu, and toolkit for reaching the Latino population. All are filled with common-sense practical steps that apply to virtually any risk communication need. If you follow the checklists, and take time to read the short guides, you’ll be on your way towards developing a good communication plan.
Comments on this entry are closed.