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Section Summary

Establish trust and credibility by engaging with the community before a crisis hits.

  • Partner with community organizations
  • Get input from the community on decisions that will affect them
  • Be visible
  • Prepare people for potential disasters

During a crisis, provide opportunities like online forums, hotlines, and public meetings for people to express concerns and ask questions. Anticipating what questions people might have before you host a public event will better prepare you to answer people’s concerns calmly and confidently.

If a public forum turns hostile, remember to:

  • Let people express their outrage
  • Make yourself accessible
  • Don't take it personally
  • Stay on message