Building Risk Communication Infrastructure by Bolstering Emergency Managers’ Formal and Informal Communication Networks

Bradley A. Trefz, David H. Bierling, Andrew Christjoy, Joshua B. Barbour

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Emergency managers and community partners must communicate complex information to public audiences likely to have low knowledge and high anxiety during hazardous materials incidents. Emergency officials convey information through press briefings, news releases, and social media. Changes in media systems such as loss of local outlets, increasing social media reliance, media fragmentation, and disinformation challenge traditional approaches to risk communication. Formal and informal communication networks can play an integral role in helping prepare for and respond to technological incidents. Organizations like local emergency planning committees (LEPCs) coordinate, connect, and build network communication infrastructures, supporting risk communication in catastrophes. Although LEPCs do not respond to emergencies and disasters, the networks that LEPCs cultivate can assist emergency officials and community partners in sharing coordinated messages about technical risks that are more likely to encourage trust among an anxious public.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationCommunication and Catastrophic Events
Subtitle of host publicationStrategic Risk and Crisis Management
EditorsH Dan O'Hair, Mary John O'Hair
PublisherWiley
Pages103-119
Number of pages17
ISBN (Electronic)9781119751847
ISBN (Print)9781119751816
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2022
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Social Sciences

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