There are many different possibilities to engage publics in crisis preparedness and response that can be utilized. Response organisations need crisis communication competence to co-create safety with public groups. Resources can be mapped and local groups included in crisis preparedness and planning, for example, by arranging joint exercises involving citizens, starting preparedness education at an early stage involving schools, and a clear communication strategy involving online communication.
Key enablers for public empowerment are:
- Inviting people to participate through concrete actions and sharing of information
- Including public communication initiatives in authority communication
- Accessibility and inclusiveness of authority communication
- Making information widely available and easy to find.
Recommendations and links can be found in this crisis communication WIKI for professionals.