1) Assess the role of social media and its potential for application in emergency management. In doing so, examine and clearly indicate in a short written narrative, how you believe that social media can be supportive across the four phases of emergency management (Mitigation, Preparedness, Response and Recovery);
2) Once done so, name and briefly describe each of the ‘Five Critical Assumptions for a Successful Communications Strategy’ as indicated in your text and then detail two of the Critical Assumptions and examine how social media might be used advance them as part of a successful communications strategy.
Full Answer Section
Preparedness
Social media can be used to build and strengthen emergency management networks and communities. For example, social media can be used to connect with other emergency management agencies, organizations, and individuals. Social media can also be used to share information about preparedness resources and training opportunities.
Response
Social media can be used to provide real-time information about emergencies to the public. For example, social media can be used to share information about evacuation orders, road closures, and other important updates. Social media can also be used to coordinate response efforts and to solicit support from the public.
Recovery
Social media can be used to provide information and support to people who have been affected by emergencies. For example, social media can be used to share information about recovery resources, such as shelters, food banks, and financial assistance programs. Social media can also be used to connect people with others who have been affected by emergencies and who can offer support.
Here are some specific examples of how social media has been used in emergency management:
- During the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan, social media was used to coordinate search and rescue efforts, to share information about evacuation centers, and to provide support to people who had been affected by the disaster.
- During the 2013 Hurricane Sandy in the United States, social media was used to provide real-time information about the storm, to coordinate response efforts, and to solicit support from the public.
- During the 2014-2016 Ebola outbreak in West Africa, social media was used to educate the public about the disease, to promote preventive measures, and to coordinate response efforts.
Social media can be a powerful tool for emergency management, but it is important to use it responsibly. Here are some tips for using social media in emergency management:
- Be accurate and timely when sharing information.
- Be respectful of the privacy of people who have been affected by emergencies.
- Be aware of the potential for misinformation on social media.
- Be prepared to manage the flow of information on social media during an emergency.
Overall, social media has the potential to play a significant role in all four phases of emergency management. By using social media responsibly, emergency managers can educate the public, build and strengthen networks, provide real-time information, and coordinate response and recovery efforts.
Sample Answer
Social media has the potential to play a significant role in all four phases of emergency management: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.
Mitigation
Social media can be used to educate the public about hazards and risks, and to promote mitigation measures. For example, social media campaigns can be used to raise awareness about the importance of having a family emergency plan or of preparing for specific hazards, such as hurricanes or tornadoes. Social media can also be used to share information about mitigation resources and programs.