Public Information in an All-Hazards Incident MGT 318

https://www.homelandsecurity.iowa.gov/training/CalDetails.aspx?EventID=721&CourseID=322

This course examines the role of public information in managing an all-hazards incident and provides practical training in crisis communication techniques. In such an incident, it is imperative that community leaders, incident managers, and public information officers are prepared to communicate with the public through the news and social media. The course focuses on the role of public information in incident management, the information needs of the public in a crisis, and the various means of effectively communicating through the news and social media. Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to manage the major elements associated with public information in a WMD, terrorism and all-hazards incident.

Prerequisites: No formal prerequisites. However, it is recommended that participants be familiar with the Incident Command System as outlined in FEMA Independent Study Program Courses IS100 and IS200.

Target Audience: The course is designed for participants whose duties may require them to interface with news media representatives during their community’s response to a WMD/terrorism incident or major disaster. Course participants who would benefit from this training include the jurisdiction’s key elected officials, public information officers, key department heads, key public health and medical personnel, and emergency management officials from both the public and private sectors.