Mass Notification and Crisis Communications：Planning, Preparedness, and Systems

Mass communication in the midst of a crisis must be done in a targeted and timely manner to mitigate the impact and ultimately save lives. Based on sound research, real-world case studies, and the author’s own experiences, Mass Notification and Crisis Communications: Planning, Preparedness, and Systems helps emergency planning professionals create a crisis communications plan that works by establishing upfront relationships with responders, enacting protocols, and utilizing technology to effectively message the intended audience.

Providing communication best practices to professionals, the book:



Reviews the challenges organizations face with communications in the face of various types of disasters
Helps to outline the target audience of the communiqué
Describes different communication techniques used throughout history during peace and wartime
Provides methods for getting the right message across the first time
Explores how social media can be a powerful tool in message dissemination
Examines the legal landscape to ensure managers are in compliance with international, federal, state, and local regulatory requirements


Aligned with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s National Emergency Communications Plan—as well as the U.S. strategic plan to improve emergency response communications—the book provides recommendations to key decision makers given all considerations that must be weighed and factored in during a crisis.

Denise Chatam Walker, Ph.D. is the Chief Emergency Management Officer for the Lone Star College System in The Woodlands, Texas.

History of Communications Disaster Communications—Two-Way Conversations Dynamics of Communications and Concepts of OperationsChallenges to Effective Communications Changing Realities in Emergency CommunicationsEmergency Communications Framework A Crisis Occurs … Now What? International, Federal, State, and Local Laws, Regulations, Systems, Plans, and Structures Ripple Effect of Social Media and Social Networking Solutions—Some Solutions Are Better than None Learning Your Systems RequirementsPicking a Solution That Fits Effective Communication Plans Getting the Message Right the First Time Prepare to Prosper Conclusions Appendix A: List of AcronymsAppendix B: Sample Mass Notification System Activation andCriteria Guidance Sheet Appendix C: Sample Messages Appendix D: List of Questions to Ask a Vendor before You Buy Appendix E: Sample Social Media Strategy Appendix F: Emergency Call Numbers Glossary Additional Resources Index