ER 111 - Risk Communication and Public Information

Credit Hours: 3

A description of risk communication and its principles; and the study of the role and skills of the public information officer during an emergency. The principles and factors for effective risk communication are explained. Topics addressed includes: major problems faced in communicating risk to the public, common misconceptions during communication campaigns, and writing risk messages. The basic skills of the public information officer, including verbal and written communications, information dissemination, and the role of the media and the relationship of the PIO with the media are described. The basic tools, techniques and latest technology to assist the PIOs in carrying out their emergency public information responsibilities are presented. A performance-based approach is utilized by conducting radio and TV interviews allowing the students to apply what they have learned at the ECC Multi-Scenario Simulator.
F (C, S)