Training: Dealing with the Media: A short course for rural first responders

When the Media Calls
Whether it be roadside, at the scene of an emergency, or in a crisis situation, rural first responders are often thrust into the role of a public information officer fielding questions from the news media and working with media outlets to quickly and effectively communicate information to the public.

The Rural Domestic Preparedness Consortium (RDPC) is making it easier for emergency responders in Toledo, IA to step into that role by delivering a free U.S. Department of Homeland-certified media awareness course that provides valuable insight into helping to understand how the media works and how best to work with available media outlets.

This six-hour instructor-led course, will give emergency responders the skills and knowledge they need to quickly adopt the role of a public information officer if and when needed and to communicate with the public through the news media.

Participants will learn both in a classroom-lecture setting and through group activities. Many rural first responder organizations do not have a full- or part-time public information officer on staff, therefore, making this training a valuable asset in learning more about building media relationships and effective communication skills in disseminating information to the news media.

Register by 2/9/13