Community Engagement
In a crisis, people will check multiple sources for information before deciding what to do, and often their most trusted sources of information are those they know in their community. Therefore, you can't rely solely on mass media or your websites to deliver vital health information. Emergency risk communication also involves communicating directly with community partners and the people you serve.
Direct communication with the public during public health emergencies can present challenges, especially if people are feeling a high level of outrage. But it is a vital aspect of effective emergency risk communication because it provides opportunities to:
- Establish credibility and trust within the community
- Learn firsthand about the community's needs and concerns
- Circulate information through known and trusted sources