He stated that inconsistent information in warnings leads to the public not believing the warnings, believing but feeling the warning is not meant for them, seeking more information, and not taking action. The more specific the information, the more people believe the warnings, personalize the risk, and take action. He also asked if the previous warning studies hold true given the changes in communications and display technologies available to the public. The audience raised several questions for the panel. Questions were also raised about the communication value of the sound of a human voice with a sense of urgency versus a synthesized voice used in NOAA Weather Radio.
Credibility is a key to effective warning communication.
Teamwork and warning partnerships are critical.