Risk Communication Web Library

We have compiled an Internet library containing various research reports focusing on the many facets of homeland security and emergency preparedness including: risk communication, psychology, bio-terrorism, and health issues. There are also two sections containing nuclear risk communication and shelter-in-place strategy materials.

Simply click on the headings below to display the documents. These copies can be accessed directly from the Internet for download or printing. In addition, IIIA welcomes any student or professor to visit our library in ISAT 231, which houses the documents in hard copy format and many other resources dealing with homeland security and cyber security issues. Check back for updates.

 

Importance of Risk Communication

Education & Service Outreach

Many times communication is defined as the technology applications for interoperability so police can talk with the fire department during emergencies. But communications has a much broader definition that, perhaps, is even more critical to helping communities be prepared.

The overarching goal for any communication on preparedness is to move people to actually prepare for emergencies.  The Center for Disease Control says that only about 23% of American get ready ahead of time for emergencies and over 70% of people prepare "just in time." People need to feel strongly that preparedness is important and critical to their wellbeing.  Behavioral change on a community level is what is needed for our country to truly prepare for disasters, whether those disasters are hurricanes or terrorist attacks.  Often, when communication comes from the top down instead of growing organically, the result is information overload, leading to indifference and inaction.

Communication campaigns that enable self-efficacy for both the individual and the community encourage positive behavioral change.  However, the greatest endorsement for apathy and inaction is too much information.  Preparedness campaigns must inspire people to move from apathy to action.