National Incident Management System NIMS Public Information NIMS

National Incident Management System (NIMS) & Public Information

NIMS Components n n n Preparedness Communications and Information Management Resource Management Command Management Ongoing Management and Maintenance

Command Management Elements n NIMS Command Management component q Incident Command System (ICS) q Multiagency Coordination Systems q Public Information

What’s the Value of Public Information? n Timely, consistent messages help ensure that numerous audiences receive: q q Lifesaving measures. Evacuation routes. Threat and alert system notices. Other public safety information.

Three NIMS Public Information Principles n n n The PIO supports Incident Command. Public Information functions must be coordinated and integrated. Organizations participating in public information coordination retain their independence.

Public Information Mission During an Incident n n Get accurate, understandable information to the public in a timely manner. Why? So people can take action to save lives and minimize damage to property.

Who is the PIO ? n n When an incident occurs, the lead agency assumes Incident Command a PIO is designated. Usually this person is a full-time PIO whose role in an incident has been predetermined in emergency plans and standard operating procedures.

Role of the PIO n Under ICS, the PIO advises and represents the Incident Command on all public information matters relating to the management of the incident.

What Does the PIO Do in ICS? n The PIO supports the incident command structure as a member of the Command Staff.

Five Basic PIO Responsibilities n PIOs are able to create coordinated and consistent messages by collaborating to: 1. Identify key information. 2. Craft messages conveying key information. 3. Prioritize messages. 4. Verify accuracy. 5. Disseminate messages.

Interested in Learning More… Take the NIMS Public Information, IS-702. a, at Course ID 1022919 in TRAINVirginia.

Interested in Social Media in Emergency Management… Take Social Media in Emergency Management, IS-42, at Course ID: 1034415 in TRAINVirginia.