This chapter provides guidance on organizing work with communication media. It outlines specific characteristics of the media, their requirements for information, and the key messages that the health sector should publicize during emergencies and disasters. During times of disaster, the media serves as a critical partner to facilitate the transmission of messages that can generate humanitarian assistance, inform public behavior, and contribute to improving the quality of life in these circumstances.

Handbook The handbook describes a seven-step process to assist officials and others to communicate effectively through the media during emergencies. Field Guide The Field Guide is a shortened version of the Handbook. It highlights the practical aspects of the seven-step approach. Wall Chart The chart shows the seven-step approach and provides easily recalled key information and advice.

This guide has been produced by DFID’s Conflict and Humanitarian Affairs Department and Social Development Department to serve as a reference point for DFID staff and partner bilateral and multilateral development agencies. It aims to provide geographical desk officers and sectoral advisers with a resource to strengthen both their understanding of the role media can play in conflict and other emergency situations and the options open to them for supporting practical initiatives.

This book gives leaders the tools to navigate the harsh realities of speaking to the public, media, partners and stakeholders during an intense public-safety emergency, including terrorism. In a crisis, the right message at the right time is a “resource multiplier”—it helps response officials get their job done. Many of the predictable harmful individual and community behaviors can be mitigated with effective crisis and emergency risk communication. Each crisis will carry its own psychological baggage.

Provides information on media relations during emergencies including: The importance of good media relations How to get information to the media Writing and distributing press releases What to do with videos and photos Explanation of proactive vs. reactive media relations Holding press conferences