HSEM 157 - Public Information Officer

2 Credits

The course is designed to train participants for coordinating and disseminating information released during emergency operations and for assisting in the scheduling and coordination of news conferences and similar media events. After completing this course the student will have met the sections required for Public Information Officer as outlined by NFPA 1035.

Fees

Quarters Typically Offered
Summer Online
Fall Online
Winter Online
Spring Online

Designed to Serve Those wishing to enter into or advance in the Emergency Management Field in both the private and public sectors. This course will also help, those wishing to work in the marketing or Public Information Officer field.
Active Date 2015-11-20

Grading System Decimal Grade
Class Limit 25
Contact Hours: Lecture 22 Lab 0 Worksite 0 Clinical 0 Other 0
Total Contact Hours 22
Degree Distributions:
ProfTech Course Yes
Restricted Elective Yes
Course Outline
A. Introduction to Public Information
B. Characteristics/responsibilities of a Public Information Officer
C. Ethics, Legal Issues and Policies
D. The Media
E. Developing Positive Relationships with the Media
F. Gathering Information
G. Getting Information to the Media
H. Interviewing
I. Scene Management
J. Multiagency Operations: Information Operations at a Large Incident
K. News Conferences
L. Reaching the Community

Student Learning Outcomes
List and describe characteristics and responsibilities that make an effective public information officer.

Recognize and describe guidelines for department policies, which guide public information function.

List and describe the characteristics for developing positive relations within the media.

Discuss and explain the purpose of a media guide.

Distinguish between a news release and media advisory component parts.

Examine the Emergency Alert System (EAS).

Discuss the basic guidelines on managing the media scene.

Identify the basic guidelines to follow before and during an interview.

Examine basic guidelines of understanding public speaking.

List and describe the steps in preparing a news conference.