Randall N Hyer and Vincent T Covello

July 2005

This set of materials includes a handbook, field guide, and wall chart.

Handbook
The handbook describes a seven-step process to assist officials and others to communicate effectively through the media during emergencies. Based on the belief that implementing a proactive and interactive approach will strengthen the ability of public health organisations and officials to ensure that their messages are accurately reported, highly visible and clearly heard.

The seven steps are:

• Step 1: Assess media needs, media constraints, and internal media-relations capabilities
• Step 2: Develop goals, plans and strategies
• Step 3: Train communicators
• Step 4: Prepare messages
• Step 5: Identify media outlets and media activities
• Step 6: Deliver messages
• Step 7: Evaluate messages and performance

Click here to download the handbook in PDF format.

Field Guide
The Field Guide is a shortened version of the Handbook. It highlights the practical aspects of the seven-step approach.

Click here to download the field guide in PDF format.

Wall Chart
As an aid to easy recollection of the key issues brought up in the above publications, a detachable double-sided wall chart has been provided at the end of the handbook. The chart shows the seven-step approach and aims to provide easily recalled key information and advice.

Click here to download the wall chart in PDF format.