Social Engagement Shouldn't Wait Until After A Crisis Hits

One of the greatest challenges social media emergency managers face is that the public isn’t very interested in hearing from them unless and until a disaster strikes, they told lawmakers on Tuesday.

That can make it more difficult to communicate effectively and efficiently with citizens during a crisis, Albert Ashwood, director of Oklahoma’s Department of Emergency Management, said during a hearing led by the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response and Communications.

Emergency managers have tried to be more visible before crisis hits by launching Web and mobile services that offer helpful tips.