Communication and Crisis

Communication and Crisis

HCS/320 Paul Wing

August 11, 2014

Lakeycia Harper

When a crisis happens it is a stressful and overwhelming time in an individual’s life. These are the times when people find it hard to cope with everyday situations, in most cases it is hard for the individual to remain calm and think logically. “Crisis communication is what is communicated before a situation occurs, when a situation erupts, and after the situation is stabilized. During crises of any magnitude, effective communication is key.”(Encyclopedia of Science and Technology, 2010, ISBN 1412959209). The crisis created when the nuclear reactor malfunctioned in the Three Mile Island was because a dangerous radiation was released into the environment. With dealing with the concerns of how to deal with this situation, several different forms of communication such as television, and radio will be used to inform the public.

As director of the Regional Emergency Management Office, it is my job to implement a plan on how this situation will be addressed and handled. We will also have constant communication to the general public to let them know that the problem is being handled. The director will also be communicating with the news as well as radio personnel to keep the informed on what is happening to fix this disaster. In the case of hurricane Katrina, the director has to communicate and coordinate with FEM, MEMA, and Red Cross as well as the Federal government to ensure that all bases are covered in order to coordinate shelter for individuals affected by the hurricane and cleanup efforts. In my paper I will discuss the individuals or groups that will be communicating inside and outside the organization during this crisis, Potential advantages and challenges associated with communicating within the organization with the public and private sectors, Differences in communication processes used in crisis situations, and appropriate technology affecting communication during...