PIO - Hazard Specific Checklists

Hazardous Materials Spill/Release

Flood

Hurricane

Tornado

Winter Storm

Major Structural Fire

Forest/Wildland Fire
 

Media Releases

Procedures

General Guidelines For Working With the Media

1. Bertie County has continuing programs, which use various channels of communication, including the mass media, to provide needed and desired information about local government activities and services to the general public. 
    
2. During periods of emergency, the public needs, and generally desires, detailed information regarding protective action to be taken for minimizing loss of life and property. There are times however, when disaster strikes without warning and the public information system cannot react rapidly enough to properly inform the public about the hazard. For this reason, it is important that prior to the occurrence of an emergency the public be made aware of potential hazards and the protective measures that can be employed.
    
3. In major emergency or disaster situations, there may be large numbers of media representatives seeking information about the situation and about response actions. It is the policy of Bertie County to cooperate fully with the media in all phases of Emergency Management. Bertie County officials have developed procedures in cooperation with local media to disseminate emergency information to the public. However, they recognize that a really large emergency or disaster will attract regional and national media representatives not parties to, or knowledgeable of, local media arrangements.
    
4. Local media outlets serving Bertie County are found in the Public Information Annex.
    
5. There is a growing percentage of non-English speaking residents in Bertie County. The largest group of non-English speaking residents is Hispanic.

1. The media serving Bertie County will cooperate with local officials in the dissemination of information to the public.
    
2. The media will demand information about emergency situations and disasters. The local media, particularly television and radio, will perform an essential role in providing emergency instructions and up-to-date information to the public. Depending on the severity of the emergency, or the media's perception of the severity of the emergency, regional and national media will also cover the story and demand information and comment from local officials. 
    
3. Media personnel may attempt to obtain information from other than �official sources.�
    
4. An effective public information program will reduce casualties and damages.
    
5. During emergency situations and disasters, the general public will demand information about the emergency situation and instruction on proper response actions.
    
6. Depending on the severity of the emergency or disaster, telephone communication may be sporadic or impossible. Local and regional radio and television stations without emergency power may also be off the air. 
    
7. Demand for information will be overwhelming if sufficient staff is not provided and if staff is not trained and operating from a pre-established set of procedures.

1. Unless the EOC IC directs the Public Information Officer (PIO) to directly support the On-Scene IC, the PIO will be located in the County EOC, which will serve as the single official point of contact for the media during an emergency.
    
2. Dissemination of public information will use all available media:  television, radio, and newspaper.  Activation of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) will be in accordance with the State EAS Operational Plan.
    
3. A rumor control section will answer inquiries from the public and will monitor media broadcasts to insure the public is receiving accurate information. Rumor control will be managed by the PIO.
    
4. Coordination will be maintained with State, Federal, and / or private agencies so that essential information can be obtained for release to the public. If necessary, a Joint Information Center (JIC) will be established to ensure proper coordination can be achieved.
    
5. Release of official public information will be approved by the Chairperson of the Board of County Commissioners, the County Manager, or the EOC IC. Only that information released by the designated PIO and approved by the Chairperson of the Board of County Commissioners, the County Manager, or the EOC IC will be considered official.
    
6. The PIO will establish procedures to inform families about the status of relatives that are injured or missing, emergency services that are available, and areas that are damaged or restricted.
    
7. The PIO will coordinate with the EOC IC to prepare instructions for people who must evacuate from hazardous areas as a result of flooding, dam failure, hazardous materials incident, etc. These materials will include the following for each threat:
   • Definition of the population at risk
   • Evacuation routes
   • The type of quantities of clothing, food, medical items, etc., evacuees should take with them
   • Safe travel routes for return to residences
   • Locations of shelters, feeding facilities, and medical centers
   • Centrally located staging areas and pick-up points for evacuees without a means of transportation

1. Pre-Emergency
    
   • Develop Emergency Public Information (EPI) materials describing the health and property risks associated with a particular hazard and the appropriate mitigation actions that should be taken
   • Develop EPI materials for the visually-impaired residents
   • Develop and conduct public information programs stressing hazard awareness and personal and property protection measures
   • Develop procedures for:
     • Rumor control
     • News releases (Print and Broadcasting)
     • Coordination with departmental and other local jurisdictional PIOs
     • Record keeping
   • Coordinate with agencies who have access to technical information for release to the media and the public
   • Establish contact with local EBS stations and develop procedures for emergency release of information
   • Prepare EPI packages for release during emergencies and distribute them to local media
   • Participate in tests and exercises
      
2. Increased Readiness
   • Analyze the potential disaster to ensure pertinent information is prepared for release
   • Issue information through the media and EBS stations to allow the public to take protective actions
   • Begin rumor control operations
      
3. Emergency Response
    
   • Release emergency information as necessary, as well as reception and care locations for evacuees
   • Schedule and conduct briefings for the media
   • Monitor news media reports for accuracy and conduct other rumor control activities
   • Maintain a chronological record of news releases (see Media Releases below)
      
4. Recovery
    
   • Continue to distribute public information as needed
   • Continue rumor control and news briefings
   • Supply information concerning the status of emergency or disaster-affected individuals
   • Maintain operational level until the situation returns to normal
   • Participate in after-action reports and critiques

1. In Bertie County and its municipalities, the Public Information Officer will coordinate public information (preparedness / awareness campaigns) during normal (day-to-day) times. When emergency incidents arise which call for the establishment of an Information Officer at the scene of an emergency, the Incident Commander on-scene is responsible for establishing this function. Once the Information Officer function has been established it is the responsibility of the on-scene Information Officer to contact other PIO's when deemed necessary and appropriate. During major emergencies and disasters the PIO will report directly to the EOC if activated. Other PIO's will report to their respective manager or municipality.   
    
2. The PIO's will be available to advise their managers, department heads and chief elected and appointed officials on communication with the media and the public. All information releases should be coordinated with the EOC before dissemination. When deemed necessary and appropriate, the Bertie County EOC IC, after consultation with the Bertie County Executive Group, will activate the JIC to coordinate information with all county departments and private organizations as well as the State and Federal government. 

1. At emergency incidents, on-scene Information Officers will release information at a single location. It is desirable that the public information representatives from other involved agencies join the Information Officer in releasing information through a single coordination point on-scene. The Information Officer will coordinate all information releases with final approval given by the Incident Commander. 
    
2. If the emergency situation worsens, or if in another situation the EOC is activated, the coordination of information falls to the County PIO.  The PIO will coordinate information releases for the emergency from the EOC and stay in touch with on-scene PIO's and other PIO's for details about the incident. 
    
3. If the emergency situation continues to worsen, or if in another situation the JIC is activated, the coordination of information falls to the designated Lead PIO in the JIC. Appropriate local, State, Federal and private PIO's will work together at the JIC in disseminating information. The Lead PIO in the JIC will be designated at the time of the major emergency or disaster. All information gathering, verification, and dissemination will be coordinated at the JIC by participating public information personnel.

1. The Emergency Information System organization in Bertie County and its municipalities are integral parts of the Direction and Coordination Organizations countywide. For most situations, the Emergency Information System will be handled by a single PIO. For major emergencies or disasters, the Emergency Information System staff will be set up with an organization as shown below. (EOC Activation) 
    
2. No single individual has been appointed the Bertie County Emergency Public Information Officer (PIO). Once appointed, this individual will be assisted as necessary by the County Commissioners, County Manager, Emergency Services Director and department PIOs.

1. Bertie County Emergency Management
    
   • When the Bertie County Emergency Management Organization is activated, the EOC IC will provide information concerning operations to the Emergency Information System organization and issue all emergency information to the news media and the public through the Emergency Information System organization to assure proper coordination.
   • Develop and maintain hazard-specific EPI materials, as requested by the County PIO. 
      
2. Public Information Officer (PIO)
    
   • Develop a capability to rapidly release emergency instructions and information to the public through all available means.
   • Receive all calls from the media and the public concerning an emergency situation and respond with official information or relay calls to other PIO's, EOC staff and / or the EOC staff.
   • Obtain reports or situation summaries from Planning / Intelligence Section Chief to maintain current estimates of the situation.
   • Prepare news releases.
   • Conduct situation briefings for visitors, media, etc.
   • Conduct tours of the area affected by the disaster, as appropriate.
   • Serve as an on-scene Information Officer, as appropriate.
   • Establish a field information center, if appropriate, at a location near the command post. Be prepared to work with the EOC and JIC if activated.
   • Arrange interviews with key personnel, when requested by the media, Emergency Management PIO, or Lead PIO.
      
3. American Red Cross
    
   • Develop Emergency Public Information (EPI) materials describing the health and property risks associated with a particular hazard and the appropriate mitigation actions that should be taken.
   • Develop EPI materials for the visually-impaired residents.
     Develop and conduct public information programs stressing hazard awareness and personal and property protection measures.
   • Additional assignments are included in other sections of this annex.
      

1. When an emergency incident, major emergency, disaster, or threat of any of the previously mentioned items occurs, the EAS system will be used by authorities in Bertie County to inform the public. 
    
2. Upon notification, the designated official (Emergency Services Director, EOC IC or Designee), once informed of the consequences of the incident, and if requested to ask for an EAS activation, will contact the N.C. Emergency Operations Center and make a request for an Emergency Alert notification due to the emergency situation. In the meantime, additional information should be prepared for transmission via other media avenues. 
    
3. The designated official will at that time further identify himself / herself and officially request the activation of the Bertie County EAS and broadcast the emergency message.  
    
4. The North Carolina Emergency Management Agency and the Bertie County Emergency Services Director have developed the authentication procedures and have distributed them accordingly, on a need-to-know basis, to those authorized to request activation of the EAS in Bertie County. 
    
5. When the above authorization is complete the designated official will read the prepared announcement to Radio Station WSOC-FM in Charlotte. (LP-1) at which time it will be tape recorded by the station and broadcast to the public. 
    
6. It is recommended that the designated official use this format when recording the emergency announcement: 
    
7. "This is __________________ of the ____________________. We have requested the activation of the Emergency Alert System for Bertie County to inform the public of an emergency incident at the ______________________________________.�
   
   Note:  Announcements should describe conditions, the area and people affected, and what procedures the public should follow.  The announcement should be very specific and should be repeated at least twice. It should conclude with rather exact information as to when further details and announcements will be available to the public.
    
8. Upon completion of the above transmission procedures, the LP-1 Station will broadcast the fact that they will continue to broadcast information as it is received, and resume normal programming. When further information is needed to instruct the public, the designated official will contact the LP-1 Station and record additional messages as necessary. Member stations in the Bertie County Area will monitor LP-1, record any announcements and rebroadcast them as they become available. LP-1 will give advance notice that another message is coming up and will provide a count-down in event other stations desire to broadcast live. 
    
9. Upon receipt of the termination notice from the activating official, the official should record an announcement through LP-1 giving a re-cap of the incident and stating that the emergency is now over and any other information the public should be aware of. This recording will be immediately broadcast by LP-1 and either broadcast live by other area stations or recorded for immediate broadcast at their station.

• County Manager
• Chairman of the Bertie County Board of Commissioners or designee
• Bertie County Sheriff or Acting Sheriff
• Communications Department Director   

EAS Activation Checklist 
 

PIO Procedures for EOC Activation 
 

PIO Procedures for Normal (day-to-day) Activities
 

PIO Procedures for Emergency Incidents 
 

PIO Procedures for Disasters or Major Emergencies 
 

PIO Procedures for Joint Information Center Activation 
 

• General JIS / JIC operation and guidance
• Gathering and verifying information
• Information coordination
• Rumor control
• Information dissemination 

1. The overriding concept of the JIC is that it recognizes that each of the individuals represented at the JIC may continue to represent his / her own agency, while at the same time receiving the benefits of a coordinated public information approach. 
    
   • A JIC operation can result in the pooling of assets so that each individual agency will have far greater resources available than if it is functioning alone. 
   • The results of 1 and 2 above are, that if implemented effectively, the public will receive information faster, more accurately, more thoroughly and with less risk of conflicting statements. 
   • To ensure coordination among the parties present at the JIC, all PIO's will assemble in one general work area, and at briefings speak from one platform. Any conflict of information or opinion will be immediately identified, discussed, and hopefully resolved prior to news media briefings. All written releases will be coordinated through the Lead PIO's staff prior to their release to the public. To ensure coordination between the JIC and those parties not present, the following principles will be followed, to the extent possible: 
      
2. Joint news conferences and briefings are preferred, however, in the event that this is not possible, scheduling will be coordinated so as to avoid conflict. 
    
3. Hard-copy releases and broadcast scripts will be exchanged whenever possible before release time. 
   • The JIC will make available to the media all emergency print and broadcast information releases received from other organizations. 
   • The JIC will refer news media inquires to appropriate official spokespersons. If requested, JIC members will assist agencies in responding to inquiries.
   • The JIC will make summaries of news conferences and fact sheets, etc. available to all organizations. 
   • The JIC will make every effort to assemble spokespersons from all responding agencies in one location. 
      
4. The information flow to and from the JIC can come from many directions. A system has been established for information flow within the JIC. JIC participants will more than likely be receiving information from the following sources: media inquiries, updates from State and local on-scene personnel, updates from EOC personnel and from news broadcasts. 
    
5. The information coming into the JIC will either go to one of three areas - the local agency PIO room, the rumor control room, or the Emergency Operations Center.
    
6. Once the information request is in the JIC system, an action must be taken. Several types of action may be necessary - the person receiving the call may be able to respond to the inquiry immediately if the answer is known. The information may be of the type that must be disseminated immediately. The inquiry may need to be routed to another agency PIO. The inquiry may require some research or some verification. 
7. Whatever action is required, the information needs to be coordinated with all agencies and the lead Public Information Officer. 
    
8. As the information is being coordinated, a decision will need to be made on what to do about the information. A media release may be required or a news conference may be needed to address the issue. 
    
9. Once a decision has been made on the information, arrangements need to be made to disseminate the information. 

 

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Hazardous Materials Spill / Release
 

• Recognize that flammable liquids are extremely dangerous and should be used only in certain ways. 
   
• Store all liquids such as gasoline, acetone, benzene and lacquer thinner in tightly capped metal cans, away from the house. 
   
• Store 1 gallon or less of each. 
   
• Use storage can with an Underwriter's Laboratories (UL) or Factory Method (FM) approved label. 
   
• Keep hazardous materials away from heat sources and open flames. 
   
• If materials are used in-doors, make sure the area is well ventilated. 
   
• Never use gasoline or similar materials to start or freshen a fire. 
   
• Paint thinner, kerosene, charcoal lighter fluid, turpentine and other combustible liquids are flammable especially when heated, when in a spray, or when spread in a thin layer over a large surface. Keep all such materials away from heat or any ignition source. 
   
• Store all toxic chemicals away from children. 
   
• Always wash thoroughly after exposure to strong chemicals. Change clothes and allow them to dry in a well-ventilated, cool area.
   
• The dangers from chemical exposure come from inhalation, skin exposure, swallowing, and eye exposure. Read the instructions on the chemical label for the first aid measure for each of these. 

• Get out immediately if there is a fire or explosion. Call the fire department. Do not fight the fire alone! 
   
• Avoid breathing toxic fumes. Stay away from the house. 
   
• Wash any chemicals off your skin immediately. 
   
• Discard contaminated clothing. 

• Stay out of the area. 
   
• If near the area, don't panic. Follow the directions of those in charge. 
   
• Leave instantly to avoid breathing the toxic fumes. 
   
• Wash any chemicals off your skin. Discard contaminated clothing. 
   
• Don't attempt to rescue someone who as been overcome by fumes unless you have proper respiratory equipment. 
   
• Stay tuned to radio and television for directions from public officials. 
   
• If directed to evacuate, move quickly, via designated routes, out of the area or to specified shelters. 
   
• If directed to shelter-in-place, stay in-doors, seal windows and doors with tape, newspapers, plastic, or other similar material. Shut off any appliances, air- conditioners, etc. that take in air from the outside. Remain calm and await further direction.

Flood 
 

• Stock food that requires little cooking and no refrigeration. 
   
• Keep portable radio, flashlights, spare batteries, etc. available. 
   
• Keep first aid and critical medical supplies at hand. 
   
• Keep automobile fueled. 
   
• Keep materials like sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting and lumber handy for emergency waterproofing. 
   
• Store drinking water in closed, clean containers. (water service may be interrupted) 
   
• If time permits, and flooding is likely, move essential items and furniture to upper floors of home. 
   
• If forced to evacuate, move to safe area as quickly as possible, before roads are closed.
   
• Shut off electric and water service to home and follow public announcements on what to do about gas service. 

• monitor flooding / weather conditions on radio and television. 
   
• get to high ground and stay there. 
   
• don't try to cross a flowing stream or travel through flooded intersections / roads in a vehicle. (many flood-related deaths have occurred in vehicles).
   
• avoid areas subject to flooding. 
   
• if your vehicle stalls, abandon it immediately and seek higher ground. 
   
• during evacuation, take warm clothing and blankets, flashlights, radio, personal documents and identification and necessary emergency supplies to include special food and medicine.
   
• during evacuation, follow recommended routes. 

• Use flashlights instead of lanterns, matches or torches in damaged buildings. 
   
• Report broken utility lines, etc. to proper authorities. 
   
• Clean, dry, and check appliances and other equipment before use. 
   
• Purify all water before drinking. 
   
• Discard all food contaminated by floodwaters. 
   
• Stay away from flood damaged areas. Sightseeing interferes with rescue efforts. 
   
• Keep tuned to radio and TV for advice and instructions. Government should be providing information on where medical attention can be obtained, where to go for emergency assistance such as housing, clothing, food, etc. and other ways in which a citizen can recover from the flood emergency.

• Check drinking water and emergency supplies. 
   
• Have vehicles fueled. 
   
• Check all battery-powered equipment. 
   
• Keep tuned to radio or television for official instructions.
   
• Board up windows or protect them with storm shutters or tape. 
   
• Secure all outdoor objects that might blow away. 
   
• Moor boat securely or move it to a designated safe area. 
   
• Unless advised to evacuate, stay at home if house is sturdy and on high ground. 
   
• If home is not sturdy, citizen lives in a flood prone area or a mobile home, evacuate to a designated shelter and stay there till the storm passes. 
   
• Once warning has been issued and evacuation has been ordered - quickly move out! 
   
• Remain indoors during the hurricane. Travel is extremely dangerous when winds and tides are whipping through the area. 
   
• Be careful during a sudden calm. This may be the eye of the storm. Once the eye has passed, the storm will start again with winds coming from the opposite direction. 

• Remain in shelters until those in charge say it is safe to return home. 
   
• Keep tuned to local radio and television for advice and instruction. Government should be providing information on where to go for medical assistance, where to go for necessary emergency assistance such as housing, clothing, food, etc., ways to help a citizen recover from the emergency. 
   
• Use extreme caution in entering buildings that may have been damaged or weakened by the hurricane.
   
• Don't take lanterns, torches or lighted cigarettes into buildings that have been damaged by a hurricane. 
   
• Stay away from fallen or damaged electric wires, which may still be dangerous. 
   
• Check for leaking gas pipes in homes. Do this by smell - don't light matches or candles. If there is a gas smell - open all windows and doors, turn off main gas valve at the meter, leave house immediately, and notify the gas company. Do not re-enter the house until told to do so! 
   
• If any electrical appliances are wet, first turn off the power switch in house, then unplug the wet appliance, dry it out, reconnect it, and finally, turn on the main power switch. 
   
• Check food and water supplies before use. 
   
• Stay away from disaster areas. Sightseers could interfere with rescue work. 
   
• Don't drive unless necessary. If citizens must drive - they should be instructed to do so with caution! 
   
• Report broken sewer and water mains to proper authorities.

• Designate an area in home as a tornado shelter. Make sure everyone knows where it is and to go there immediately if there is a tornado threat. 
   
• If there is no reasonably safe place in home, have alternate site selected or build a shelter area. 
   
• Store valuables in tornado-proof structure. 
   
• Attach tie-downs to mobile homes. 

• Go immediately to a tornado shelter, basement, cave, or underground excavation, if time allows. 
   
• In home or small building, go immediately to the basement or the middle part of the lowest level. 
   
• If outdoors - move at right angles to the tornado's path. 
   
• If outdoors - and can't escape, lie flat in the nearest ditch or depression. 
   
• If outdoors - never stay in a car, get out and lie flat on the ground away from the car. 
   
• If you are in a city - go to or stay inside a reinforced building. 
   
• If you are in a city - stand against the inside wall on the bottom floor of an office building.
   
• Stay away from all windows.
   
• Evacuate immediately if in a mobile home.
   
• Keep tuned to radio or television for the latest tornado information. 

• Check for injuries. Provide first aid. 
   
• Stay away from damaged buildings. If home is severely damaged - leave. 
   
• Check gas lines for leaks. If gas is smelled, open windows and shut off main valve. Leave and report gas leakage to authorities. 
   
• Report broken sewer or water mains to local authorities. 
   
• Stay away from disaster areas. Sightseeing interferes with rescue efforts.

• Insulate homes. Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows or cover windows with plastic. Walls and attics should also be insulated. 
   
• Maintain a two-week supply of food, water, heating fuel, and clothing. Keep battery-operated radio and flashlight on hand. 
   
• Prevent fire hazards due to overheated coal or oil burning stoves, fireplaces, heaters or furnaces by installing adequate heat sources. 
   
• If citizens live in rural areas, they should be instructed to make trips for necessary supplies before the storm develops.
   
• Winterize vehicles. 
   
• Keep a full tank of gas. In addition to being prepared to travel, this will lesson the chance of tank freezing. 
   
• Carry a winter storm kit in vehicle. At minimum it should contain: blankets, matches or candles, first aid kit, shovel, sack of sand, flashlight, windshield scraper, booster cables, tow chains, road maps, extra clothing, and empty coffee can with lid for melting snow to drink and high-energy, nonperishable food. 
   
• Keep pipes from freezing by wrapping them in insulation or layers of old newspaper, lapping the ends, and tying them around the pipes. Cover newspaper with plastic to keep out the moisture.
   
• When it is extremely cold, let faucets drip a bit. This may prevent freezing. 
   
• Know where the valve is for shutting off the water. Shutting off the main valve and draining all the pipes may prevent freezing and bursting. 
   
• Have emergency heating equipment - such as wood, kerosene, or coal burning stove, or fireplace - in case furnace won't operate. 
   
• Listen the weather service bulletins for news of approaching storms. 

• Stay indoors. 
   
• If outdoor activity is necessary - don't overwork; dress warmly in loose-fitting, layered, lightweight clothing. Wear a hat. Mittens will keep hands warmer than gloves. 
   
• Watch for signs of cold weather exposure when outdoors. These include uncontrollable shivering, vague, slow, slurred speech, memory lapses, immobile or fumbling hands, frequent stumbling, lurching walk, drowsiness, exhaustion and inability to get up after a rest. 
   
• Cold weather exposure can be treated in the following ways: get victim into dry clothing; put victim in a warm bed with a hot water bottle, warm towels, heating pad, or some heat source; concentrate heat on the truck of the body first; keep the head low and feet up; give victim warm drinks; never give the victim alcohol, sedatives, tranquilizers, or pain relievers; keep the person quiet, don't massage or rub; call for professional help if symptoms persist. 
   
• If house is without heat do the following: 
   

  • Use alternate heat source such as wood stove or fireplace. 
     

  • Use just one or two rooms. Close off the rest of house. 
     
  • Hang blankets over windows. Stuff cracks around doors with rugs or newspapers. 
     
  • Have all members of family dress warmly in layers. Eat well-balanced meals and quick-energy food such as raisins or other dried fruit. 
  • Wear hats, especially when sleeping. 
     
  • Sleep with several light blankets rather than one heavy one. 
     
• Travel only if essential. If travel is essential - keep a full tank of gas, travel in pairs, convoy with other vehicles, plan travel before starting and select alternate routes, travel during the day, keep radio on for the latest weather information, and seek shelter immediately if the storm becomes worse. 
   
• If trapped in a vehicle during storm - avoid overexertion, stay in the vehicle, keep fresh air in the vehicle, beware of carbon monoxide poisoning, run motor / heater only when necessary, turn on inside light at night so work crews can see vehicle, exercise by clapping hands and moving arms and legs from time to time, avoid staying in one position, keep watch - one person should always stay awake.

• Never smoke in bed. 
   
• Store matches out of reach of children. 
   
• Use large, noncombustible ashtrays in each room of house. 
   
• Have members of family sleep with doors closed - this slows spreading of flames if fire breaks out. 
   
• Use inflammable sleepwear for children. 
   
• Always use screens on fireplaces.
   
• Keep yard and home area free of debris, particularly if trash is burned outdoors or outdoor cooking is an activity. 
   
• Use only 15-amp fuses for household lightning circuits. 
   
• Never overload electrical outlets.
   
• Use only electrical equipment labeled by the Underwriter's Laboratories (UL). 
   
• Store flammable liquids in unbreakable containers and away from heat sources.
   
• Have heating equipment checked regularly - don't forget fireplace / woodstove, etc.
   
• Allow air space around television and stereo to prevent overheating. 
   
• Never renew a fire by using flammable liquid.
   
• Avoid wearing loose clothing while cooking. 
   
• Conduct fire drills in home / business / etc. Know escape routes in home / business / etc. 
   
• Protect home / business with smoke detectors. 
   
• Know how to extinguish small fires. 
   
• Call fire department immediately! 

• Scream and shout to alert everyone in the building or house. 
   
• Get people out! Help those who can't help themselves! 
   
• If in a room with a closed door do the following: test door before opening; if smoke is pouring in around the bottom or if it feels hot along the top, keep it closed; open window for escape or fresh air while awaiting rescue; if no smoke is present and the door is not hot to touch, open it slowly; be prepared to slam it shut if there is too much smoke or fire in the hall; if the hall is passable, keep low to the floor, and move fast; breath through a wet cloth held over mouth and nose.
• Never use elevators. Use stairs or fire escapes. 
   
• Always keep low. Smoke and gases collect near the ceiling. 
   
• Close doors behind during escape efforts. This will slow the spread of fire. 
   
• Second-floor windowsills are usually not more than 13 feet from the ground. An average person, hanging by the fingertips, will have a drop of only six feet to the ground. 
   
• If in a high rise building, get out immediately if hallway is not smoky; if hallway is smoke-filled, close doors between you and the fire; call fire department immediately. 

• Check for injuries. Provide first aid. 
   
• Watch for smoldering remains when returning to home / business / etc. Be sure all wiring and utilities are safe. Discard food that has been exposed to heat, smoke or soot. 
   
• Contact insurance agent. Do not discard damaged goods until after an inventory has been taken. Save receipts for money you spend relating to the fire loss.

• Install spark-arresting devices on all machinery. 
   
• Smoking materials and matches should be handled carefully in woodland areas.
   
• Campfires should be extinguished thoroughly before leaving a campsite. 
   
• When burning garbage or debris, materials should be on hand to extinguish the fire if it gets out of control. 
   
• Never leave an area with a burning or smoldering fire.

• Never attempt to outrun the fire. 
   
• Look for nearby water and crouch down in it. Use wet clothing to cover head. 
   
• If water cannot be found, lie flat on the ground. Cover body with wet or reflective material or soil. 
   
• If possible, breathe through a wet cloth. 
   
• Stay calm. Heavy exertion increases oxygen demand. Breathe the air close to the ground. 

• Stay tuned to radio and television so fire location is known. 
   
• Have family members stay inside house. 
   
• Pen or tie up all pets and livestock. 
   
• Extinguish any fires in home or on property - campfires, burning trash, etc. 
   
• Clear property of brush, litter and flammable vegetation up to 30 feet from home. 
   
• Hook up hoses and prepare other water supplies. 
   
• Evacuate immediately if ordered. Forest / wildland fires move quickly. Use designated escape routes. 
   
• Once home is secured, assist community firefighters, if possible.

Media Releases 
 

Writing Media Releases 
 

Media Release Information Instructions 
 

1. PIO: The name of the public information officer assigned to this situation. This may or may not be the same person preparing the form. 
    
2. LOCATION:  The physical location of the media release point. Command post, EOC, JIC, Office, etc. 
    
3. DATE:  The date of release. 
    
4. TIME:  Time of release. 
    
5. RELEASE:  Initial / Update / Final 
    
6. INCIDENT NAME:  Every incident is given a name. 
    
7. INCIDENT NUMBER:  Every incident is given a number for reference purposes. 
    
8. INCIDENT COMMANDER:  Every incident has a commander, a person in-charge of the situation. During a major emergency or disaster this may be the Emergency Program Manager.
    
9. JURISDICTIONS INVOLVED:  List all cities, counties, states, etc. working at the event. 
    
10. TYPE OF INCIDENT:  List general type of incident - flood, fire, earthquake, hurricane, etc. 
     
11. AREA INVOLVED IN INCIDENT:  Indicate area involved in the incident - river flood basin, industrial park, etc. 
     
12. TIME BEGAN:  Approximate time and date the incident began to unfold. When it was first reported or declared to be an emergency situation. 
     
13. ESTIMATED DATE / TIME SITUATION WILL BE CONTAINED: The official time estimated that the situation would be brought under control. (if it can be estimated).
     
14. GEOGRAPHIC AREA OF INVOLVEMENT:  The actual borders of the situation. Use streets, roads, highways, city boundaries, etc.  
     
15. PERCENT OF CONTAINMENT:  Relates to fires or floods. Give description if applicable. 
     
16. CONTROL DECLARED:  Relates primarily to wildland fires. Give date and time the situation is under control.
     
17. CURRENT THREATS:  List things that are being watched out for and attempts are being made to protect from damage or injury. 
     
18. CURRENT PROBLEMS / POTENTIAL THREATS:  What special problems are currently being faced. Wind, heavy rain, access problems, equipment shortages, etc. 
     
19. ESTIMATED LOSS VALUE / CURRENT:  Estimated value of lost or damaged property, structures, equipment, etc. 
     
20. INJURIES:  List number and type of injuries. 
     
21. DEATHS:  List number and type of deaths. 
     
22. COOPERATING AGENCIES:  List all cooperating agencies participating in the response. 
     
23. CURRENT WEATHER CONDITIONS:  Temperature, humidity, winds and any important general weather information should be listed. 
     
24. PREDICTED WEATHER-NEXT 24 HOURS:  From NWS list forecast. 
     
25. NUMBER OF PERSONNEL INVOLVED:  List total number of personnel involved in the incident. 
     
26. NUMBER OF PIECES OF EQUIPMENT INVOLVED:  List total number of pieces of apparatus currently is utilized. 
     
27. PREPARED NARRATIVE / REMARKS:  Type any prepared format comments you want to release or general remarks or continued information from any of the above boxes. 
28. LIST OF EQUIPMENT INVOLVED:  Detailed list of equipment involved at the incident - by agency, type, etc. 
     
29. PLANS FOR NEXT 24 TO 36 HOURS:  General plans that have been formulated for dealing with the situation. 
     
30. PREPARED BY:  Name of the person who collected the information recorded on this form and the date and time they collected it. 
     
31. I/C APPROVAL:  Incident Commander approval if appropriate or other official. 
     
32. RELEASE AUTHORIZED FOR:  The Incident Commander or other appropriate official will indicate if the information can be released immediately or the earliest date and time that this information is authorized for release by the PIO.

Preparing for an Interview
 

Preparing for a News Conference 
 

General Guidelines for Working with the Media 
 

Checklist of Media Considerations 
 

Resources 
 

1. Key Facilities and Critical Workers
2. Information Listing
3. Emergency Management
4. Communications
5. Fire Service
6. Law Enforcement
7. Emergency Medical
8. Public Works / Utilities
9. Health
10. Medical Facilities
11. Private Resources Available
12. Shelter Information
13. Transportation
14. Educational Facilities
15. Social Services
16. Special Facilities
17. Emergency Water Facilities
18. National Guard Facilities
19. Disaster Assistance Center Locations
20. Disposal Areas
21. Media Resources 

PIO Log Sheets 
 

DISASTER OR MAJOR EMERGENCY LOG SHEET
(EOC OPERATION AND JIC ACTIVATION)

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION SHEET
 

JOINT INFORMATION SYSTEM FUNCTION:

CONTACT NUMBER:

CONTACT NAME:  

CALL BACK #:   

INFORMATION SUPPLIED / REQUESTED / ETC:

FOLLOW-UP:
 

PUBLIC AND MEDIA INQUIRY INFORMATION SHEET
 

PERSON RECEIVING CALL:

CALLER:

CALL BACK NUMBER:

INFORMATION:

ACTION TAKEN: 

1.  SUPPLIED THE FOLLOWING ANSWER:
2.  ROUTE TO FOLLOWING FOR VERIFICATION / CONFIRMATION ETC. 

            _____ FIRE                                         _____ LAW ENFORCEMENT  

            _____ PUBLIC UTILITIES                      _____ EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT           

            _____ RED CROSS                             _____ UTILITIES 

            _____ EMS                                          _____ HEALTH 

            _____ OTHER: _________________________________.
 

RESOLUTION: _____ CALL BACK _____ NEWS RELEASE _____ STATEMENT

List of Items Needed to Support PIO Operation
 

Supporting Items for PIO Operation � Normal (Day-to-Day) Activities 
 

Supporting Items for PIO Operation - Emergency Incident 
 

Supporting Items for PIO Operation - Disaster or Major Emergency (JIC Activation) 
 

Supporting Items For PIO Operation - Disaster or Major Emergency (EOC Activation)