Briefing Areas Establish a briefing area for the news media. The media should have an observation perimeter that can provide essential close access. Mark the area with distinctive colored tape and get this area established within the first 30 minutes of a crisis. An officer should be designated to check credentials, control access to and movement within the secured perimeter, and secure the safety of the media equipment. Different media require different settings.
Television needs video and film.
The crews will be concerned about lighting and shadows as well as voice quality, and will need room for trucks and transmission dishes. Radio will require a quiet place to hook into telephone lines. The press will want to probe deeply into certain aspects of the story and may require some extra attention and additional interview opportunities. The PIO should meet with media personnel and brief them in detail on the incident. The PIO must project a strong, take-charge image to the media and give the distinct impression that the department will provide all information throughout the crisis.