Skip Ribbon Commands
Skip to main content

MEDIA RELATIONS DIVISION


TRACY LARRY_1672.jpgWEB BONNIE_2072.jpg
 

IFD Public Information Officers: 

Lt. Larry Tracy  "A Shift"
Capt. Rita Burris "B Shift"
Lt. Bonnie Hensley "C Shift"



In the age of live news reporting and the fierce competition to grab that "exclusive" coverage, the modern media has become very aggressive in its methods for gathering information. It's not unusual for the reporters to be on the scene before the fire department's first piece of equipment has arrived.

     At all types of emergency scenes, dealing with the media and deciding what information should or should not be released are important challenges for fire officials. The effectiveness of any public safety agency hinges on the support of the public and how they perceive that agency, whether it is a fire department, a police department or other types of emergency responders. It is the responsibility of the IFD Public Information Officer (PIO) to create and maintain a cooperative, credible relationship with the news media, which has the ability to influence public opinion. The PIO is on duty 24 hours each day.  The 2012 IFD Shift Calendar is located below/left.

     Responsibilities of the IFD Public Information Officer include but are not limited to:

  • Respond to working fires
  • PIO responds to working Tactical Runs
  • Respond to any incident where a firefighter is injured
  • Respond on any fire fatality or serious injury to a civilian
  • The PIO can also be requested to any incident by the Incident Commander


     The PIO office hosts frequent social events for the news reporters and fire crew members in an effort to create familiarization between the members of the media and the firefighters. The PIO also sets up media events whereby the members of the media participate in firefighter training exercises. These functions help the firefighters and the media to a better understanding of each other and develop respect for one another.

     The PIO allows members of the media 24-hour access to updated information. All calls are promptly returned while trying to facilitate all reasonable requests. The PIO also participates in events related to Media/Emergency Services Organization (MESO). MESO consist of public information officers from throughout Indiana who represent police and fire departments, emergency medical services and members of the media.

     What does the IFD Public Information Officer  do at emergency scenes?

  • Compile information and facts pertaining to incident for media release.
  • Facilitate media on the scene in a timely fashion.
  • Disseminate information to media, via interviews or on the scene press conference.
  • Have knowledge of the media's location (safety and no interference).
  • Notify Mayor's office if necessary