SU_PHE4030_W5_A2_Chapman_Y

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Communications

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Apr 3, 2024

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1 A Tale of Two Crises: Comparing Emergency Communication in the Boston Marathon Bombing and Hurricane Irene Yvette Chapman South University PHE4030 Foundations of Health Communication Dr. Jamie Galbreath March 18, 2024

2 A Tale of Two Crises: Comparing Emergency Communication in the Boston Marathon Bombing and Hurricane Irene Effective communication is paramount during emergencies, serving as a critical lifeline for the public. This report delves into two contrasting emergencies: the horrific Boston Marathon bombing and the destructive power of Hurricane Irene. An analysis of the communication strategies employed in each case will reveal both successes and shortcomings. This comparative approach will illuminate the universal challenges inherent in emergency communication, while also highlighting the unique considerations for man-made and natural disasters. The ultimate aim of this analysis is to contribute to the ongoing development of more effective communication strategies that can safeguard lives and foster resilience in the face of crisis. Barriers to Message Development Boston Marathon The main barrier to message development in the Boston Marathon bombing was the chaotic and rapidly evolving nature of the event. Initially, there was confusion about the number of bombs, the locations of explosions, and the perpetrators. This uncertainty made it challenging for authorities to craft accurate and timely messages for the public. Additionally, the presence of multiple law enforcement agencies and first responders led to coordination challenges, affecting the consistency and coherence of messaging efforts ( Boston Marathon Bombing: After-Action Report , 2013). Hurricane Irene The uncertainty surrounding the path of the storm posed a significant challenge, as the unpredictable nature of hurricanes made it difficult to determine which areas would be most severely affected and the extent of potential damage ( Emergency Communications Case Study:

3 Hurricane Irene-North Carolina , 2012). This lack of clarity limited the specificity of early warnings, hindering efforts to adequately prepare and respond to the impending threat. Additionally, the abundance of weather data and forecasts led to information overload, potentially overwhelming the public and making it challenging to discern and prioritize critical information amidst the flood of updates ( Emergency Communications Case Study: Hurricane Irene-North Carolina , 2012). Timeliness Issues and Addressing Them Boston Marathon Timeliness emerged as a crucial concern in the aftermath of the Boston Marathon bombing, necessitating rapid dissemination of information to the public to ensure safety and halt misinformation. Authorities swiftly established Joint Information Centers to facilitate coordinated communication across various agencies and expedite the delivery of updates to the public. Leveraging both social media platforms and traditional media outlets, officials provided real-time updates and safety instructions to residents and visitors in the affected areas ( Boston Marathon Bombing: After-Action Report , 2013). In response to the urgency of the situation, several strategies were implemented to ensure timely communication. Notably, four formal press conferences were held within 24 hours of the incident, serving as pivotal platforms for disseminating updates and soliciting information from the public ( Boston Marathon Bombing: After-Action Report , 2013). Additionally, law enforcement agencies proactively monitored social media channels to gather potential leads and address misinformation promptly ( Boston Marathon Bombing: After-Action Report , 2013). However, some stakeholders have advocated for a more proactive approach to social media

4 engagement for public updates, suggesting opportunities for enhancement in future crisis communication strategies (Everbridge, 2014). Hurricane Irene Timeliness of communication proved to be a significant challenge during Hurricane Irene, particularly regarding the dissemination of evacuation orders and safety instructions to residents in high-risk areas ( Hurricane Irene Case Study , 2011). To address this, emergency management agencies implemented a multi-channel communication strategy, leveraging a combination of traditional media, social media, and emergency alert systems ( Hurricane Irene Case Study , 2011). This approach aimed to provide real-time updates and warnings to the public, ensuring they had the information needed to make informed decisions regarding their safety. Furthermore, officials actively coordinated with local authorities and community leaders This collaboration facilitated the timely evacuation of at-risk populations and the efficient implementation of emergency response measures across affected areas ( Hurricane Irene Case Study , 2011). The National Weather Service also played a crucial role by issuing a tropical storm warning for the affected areas five days before landfall, followed by a hurricane warning two days prior ( Hurricane Irene Case Study , 2011). These timely warnings provided valuable lead time for residents to prepare their homes and families for the approaching storm. Call to Action Boston Marathon The predominant call to action during the Boston Marathon bombing crisis was to prioritize public safety by advising residents and visitors to shelter in place and avoid the affected areas ( Boston Marathon Bombing: After-Action Report , 2013). Furthermore, authorities emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant, reporting any suspicious activities or

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