Public Information Officer (PIO)/Team's Action Guide

Actions (as appropriate and practical):

• Operate under the IC and follow personnel protection guidelines
• Receive a briefing from the IC
• Take all practical steps to provide the public with useful, timely, truthful, consistent and appropriate information throughout an emergency (see crisis communication tips)
• Prepare, in cooperation with law enforcement team, for immense media attention including the arrival of reporters at the scene
• Confirm with the IC that you are the official source of public information and inform the on scene responders, law enforcement, hospitals, local government and national EOC to refer media inquires to you
• Develop with the IC and issue a press release (see sample press releases) describing:
  • the threat;
  • appropriate and inappropriate public response actions; and
  • actions being taken to ensure public safety, protection of products, etc.
• As soon as possible, establish a public information centre (PIC) where media briefings from a single qualified spokesperson or a panel with representatives of all organizations involved in the response will be provided. Include representatives of local and national governments in briefings
• Assess the needs and request additional resources
• Prepare for international inquires and rumours