(A) Purpose. To provide and overview of how emergency public information will be disseminated in the event of a disaster.
(B) Spokesperson. The only official authorized to serve as the Public Information Officer (PIO) for the City of New Prague is the Mayor or his designee. If the Mayor is unavailable, the Vice-President of the City Council or designee will serve as the alternate PIO. These individuals will be given access to all information necessary to carry out their role as PIO for the city.
(C) Responsibilities. The PIO is responsible for disseminating information and instructions to the public on a timely basis, and for coordinating all releases during pre-emergency, emergency, and post emergency conditions. In addition, the PIO is responsible for emergency conditions. In addition, the PIO is responsible for ensuring that the Emergency Alerting System (EAS) is activated through the Scott County Emergency Management Office, should that be necessary, and for reviewing and approving all information release before they are disseminated. The PIO is responsible for public inquires and rumor control regarding an emergency situation.
(D) Policies and procedures.
(1) If it becomes necessary to establish a news briefing room, the Council Chambers will serve as an information center established and used for this purpose. News media personal will be asked to report to this facility.
(2) In the event of a protracted disaster/emergency, news releases will be issued on a regular basis.
(3) Public information will be disseminated through radio and metro TV outlets. (See attachment #3 for list)
(E) Authentication.
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Date Mayor