Be open to views from external scientists during a crisis. Ignoring
external opinions could lead to adverse publicity.
Establish a protocol for visiting scientists, defining their
tasks and ensuring that they comply with agreed measures for
communication with the EMC, the media and the public.
Always be aware that - even if officially invited - you may
be regarded as an interloper by some. Minimise this attitude
by deferring to the monitoring team and the EMC and its science
liaison officer, and being supportive rather than obstructive
at all times.
Do not engage in tasks or issue statements without the express
agreement of the monitoring scientists and the EMC.
Ensure that you never make announcements that contradict those
of the monitoring team, even if the messages are directed to
a foreign audience. Any disagreements should be resolved internally
and in advance.
Remember that the monitoring team is likely to have a better
feel for the level of public understanding of the volcano's
behaviour.
To maximize its contribution to the successful handling of the
crisis, the monitoring team must ensure that relationships with
key players and stakeholders are established, and essential
protocols and procedures in place, before the onset of the emergency.
These measures should be sufficiently rigorous to operate effectively
and with little or no modification as the crisis develops. To
this end:
Allocate individuals on the monitoring team to liaise with the
Emergency Management Committee and the media.
Build and foster strong and supportive working relationships
with the EMC and media representatives.
Ensure that the EMC is familiar with possible eruption scenarios.
|
Develop hazard and risk zonation maps based upon the aforementioned
scenarios.
Work with the EMC and other stakeholders to develop a volcanic
emergency plan and ensure that it is regularly and appropriately
updated and revised.
In advance of the crisis, put together a checklist of tasks
and key personnel to contact.
In cooperation with the EMC, plan the means and format of information
releases and announcements.
Take a pro-active role in helping to educate the public and
the media about the volcanic threat. |
|
Download manual
