This lesson presents some considerations for composition of the instruction element of the NWEM. Although the Who? When? Where? and What? may also apply to protective instructions to some extent, for simplification the focus is on the Why? and How? questions.
Why? refers to providing a brief explanation as to the reason for complying with the protective instructions, and encompasses both the harmful effects to be avoided and a characterization of the urgency. The purpose of these statements is to assist in the personalizing step of the response process.
The NWEM should contain a statement of the reason for complying with protective instructions.
If necessary, this may be a general statement such as, "TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM POTENTIALLY HARMFUL EFFECTS..."
- The NWEM should contain a statement characterizing the urgency of complying with protective instructions.
- This statement is used to identify where the protective instruction falls on a scale ranging from "advised" to "ordered." Variants may include: advised, recommended, strongly recommended, urged, strongly urged, etc., depending on the situation.
- How? relates to the specific instructions, including what to do, what not to do, and where to get further information. The purpose of these statements is to assist in the understanding step of the response process. The NWEM should have statements describing:
- What TO Do
- A bulleted or numbered list of actions aids in comprehension.
- Order the list with the most important instructions first, or where applicable, in a logical sequence of steps.
- What NOT to Do
- Do not overlook instructions about actions to avoid.
- Common examples include:
"DO NOT CALL 9 1 1 UNLESS YOU HAVE AN ACTUAL PERSONAL EMERGENCY"
"DO NOT PICK UP YOUR CHILDREN FROM SCHOOL"
"DO NOT CALL THE WEATHER SERVICE"
- Where to Get Further Information
- A statement as to where to get further information is important to the confirming step of the response process.
- If necessary, this may be a general statement such as, "FOR FURTHER INFORMATION .... TUNE TO LOCAL RADIO AND TELEVISION," assuming you plan to provide the media with updates.
- Provide a source of information about any direct assistance that may be available. Consider coordinating with 2 1 1 Information and Referral Services for this purpose, if you are unable to staff a phone bank yourself.
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