Lesson 5 - Disaster Communication on the Internet - Michael Newland

 Reference: Tanner, A., Friedman, D., Koskan, A., & Barr, D. (2009). Disaster Communication on the Internet: A Focus on Mobilizing Information. Journal of Health Communication; Vol. 14 Issue 8, Pg 741-755.

Theme: During a disaster the public needs up to date accurate information. One of the best ways to get information out to the masses is the internet. The internet is a powerful tool for Public Information Officers.

Summary: Michael Newland

·         Natural and man-made disasters are constantly a threat to everyone.

·         These disasters require emergency preparedness and emergency response information.

·         In the event of a disaster, the public seeks crisis management information. The Public Information Officer plays a large role in getting this information out.

·         In an effort to keep up with the demand for information emergency agencies and the media have turned to the internet.

·         Although television is still a relevant source of information the internet is better because you can immediately get the info that you need without having to wait for a reporter to say it. In the event of an emergency, one advantage of the Internet is the ability to post updated information just as quickly if not more quickly than television and radio news.

·         It is up to the Public Information Officer to quickly gather pertinent information and get it out to the public. What better way to do this than the use of the internet?

Application to the Lesson Topic:

      Public information officers are very important during a disaster situation. Their job is to communicate with the public and provide the media with information to give out to the public. The internet is a powerful tool for Public Information Officers.

Application to Emergency Services:

      A disaster can be a very chaotic situation. People will be terrified for their loved ones and demand information. Anything that a PIO can do to get information out to the public will help emergency responders to do their job.