Public education

“The aim of public education is to ensure an alert and informed community. There is a requirement to have the community informed about the characteristics and possible effects of identified hazards. Public education material needs to contain action statements which will direct the public to make desired preparations and take appropriate actions. ... particular attention is given to identified special needs groups. A broad range of methods for dissemination should be considered, including:

- newspapers;
- radio;
- television;
- brochures;
- public meetings;
- school visits.

It is also useful to advertise the existence of hazard analysis and emergency plans, and to place these on public view.” (3)

Annex 4 contains information that can be provided to communities on personal protection in different types of emergencies.