This 2018 manual from @CDCgov on Crisis and Emergency Risk Communication (CERC) is really impressive. Let's take a look at some of the highlights, while thinking about how they've been put into practice during the pandemic so far emergency.cdc.gov/cerc/ppt/CERC_… 1/n
Ok start with "The Six Principles of CERC". "1) Be First:
Crises are time-sensitive. Communicating information quickly is crucial. For members of the public, the first source of information often becomes the preferred source" hmmm not sure this has really worked out well 2/n
Crises are time-sensitive. Communicating information quickly is crucial. For members of the public, the first source of information often becomes the preferred source" hmmm not sure this has really worked out well 2/n
"2) Be Right: Accuracy establishes credibility. Information can include what is known, what is not known, and what is being done to fill in the gaps." er... It will disappear of its own accord? We've got lots of PPE? We are well prepared? Anyone can get a test? 3/n
"3) Be Credible: Honesty and truthfulness should not be compromised during crises." 👈🏽 no comment 4/n
"4) Express Empathy: Crises create harm, and the suffering should be acknowledged in words. Addressing what people are feeling, and the challenges they face, builds trust and rapport." I think we can spot the difference between those expressing empathy and the rest 5/n
"5) Promote Action: Giving people meaningful things to do calms anxiety, helps restore order, and promotes some sense of control" I've not noticed much of this, but it might include a positive approach to distancing where it is necessary 6/n
"6) Show Respect: Respectful communication is particularly important when people feel vulnerable. Respectful communication promotes cooperation and rapport." yes it does. Been more forthcoming from some quarters than others 7/n
And check this out! There's also five pitfalls to avoid! I am the public will have experienced *none* of these in official communications during the early pandemic?! (👈🏽possible sarcasm) 8/n
"Five pitfalls to avoid
1. Mixed messages from multiple experts
2. Information released late
3. Paternalistic attitudes
4. Not countering rumors and myths in real-time
5. Public power struggles and confusion"
Oh dear...
9/n
1. Mixed messages from multiple experts
2. Information released late
3. Paternalistic attitudes
4. Not countering rumors and myths in real-time
5. Public power struggles and confusion"
Oh dear...
9/n
The principles of risk communication have been around for a while, which makes it all the more depressing they've been cast to the winds so many times in recent months when they've been needed. Let's rediscover them - they'll be useful going forward 10/end
