Great start this morning at the Volusia County Emergency Operations Center to teach my favorite class – Social Media Tools & Techniques!

Great EOC location and outstanding learning environment to host this FEMA NDPTC course!

Today, we have all-hazards participants from across the state of Florida. #awesome

Including the entire contingent from Jacksonville Fire/Rescue! #JAX

We talked a TON about new platforms and techniques that agencies can put into place to increase their community engagement.

Engaging in-class table top social media activity (simulation) showcases the need to address consistent messaging with various government entities.

While typical emergency services (like Fire, EMS, Police) are still the cornerstone of immediate responses, we need to branch out and consider other government services that can easily amplify critical messaging during an emergency.

Additionally, we as professional communicators must branch out and think outside the communications box. Old school thinking like: “You don’t use AP style while tweeting?” – showcases the need to think about the target audience who will receive/digest our message. #amiright

We must encourage more partnerships between public safety agencies, which, in the end, will showcase the collaborative approach that defines Emergency Management.

“We must work closely with our partners in public safety to ensure a coordinated response and completion of our mission objectives.” – @rusnivek

Special thanks to Tom and all the PIO Pros who attend our training at the Volusia County Emergency Operations Center.

Reporting live from Florida…

@rusnivek