Alternative Formats

Public Information

WREMO > Get Prepared > Community Ready > Community Emergency Hubs > Hub Guide > Part 2: Working as a team > Public Information

Information helps community members understand what has happened and how they can look after themselves. 
 
The Public Information Board is the main display of new and important information the community can use. Some people may only come to the Hub for information, so the Public Information Board should be visible, close to the entrance of the Hub, and updated regularly. 

Examples of important information include: 

  • Known hazards (e.g. evacuation zones, liquefaction areas, slips, flooded or at risk areas, contaminated water). 
  • Latest weather reports as available.
  • Status of tap water, wastewater (sewerage), stormwater, power, gas, telecommunications, transport networks including main and local roads, rail, etc. 
  • Key safety messages and advice (e.g. stay away from coastal areas or flood waters, boil water). 

The Public Information person or team is responsible for maintaining the Public Information Board with relevant, updated information and advice. Make sure information has been confirmed as accurate. 

Public Information role and tasks

Put up posters

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Put up posters (found in Hub kit) in the appropriate places around the Hub. 

Work with the Information Coordination team

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Work with the Information Coordination team to identify information that would be of interest to the public. 

Put up the Public Information Board

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Position the Public Information Board somewhere clearly visible to people coming into the centre, such as near the entrance:

  • The board should be out of the way enough that people reading it don’t obstruct others. 
  • Make sure the Public Information Board is protected from rain and wind, and if possible, out of direct sun. 

Update the Public Information Board

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Update the Public Information Board as new information becomes available from official updates and what is known to be happening in the community

  • Mark each piece of information with the time and date so people know how old the information is. 
  • Write clearly to make sure it is easy to read. Use large print and a dark marker. 
  • If information isn’t confirmed, either don’t put it up, or clearly state that it hasn’t been confirmed. 

Make sure all messages on the Public Information Board are in large font, clear and easy to read for those that may have vision difficulties. 

Work with any media that show up

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The media can be a useful resource for sharing information with the wider community. The sort of information you can provide: 

  • Anything they can see (such as we are open, weather conditions). 
  • General information (such as whether you are busy, quiet, or have had lots of offers of community help). 
  • Public information you have received from the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC). 

Do NOT provide: 

  • Personal information (people’s names, addresses, etc.). 
  • Any private or confidential information you have received. 
  • Details of any deaths or injuries. 
  • Addresses of evacuated homes. 

Direct the media to the Hub Supervisor if you are unsure. 

If you come across any information that could affect the community, the running of the Hub, or the wider response to the emergency, pass it on to the Information Coordination team. 

Working as a team

Find out more about other hub roles: