Understanding the Dynamics of Emergency Communication: Propositions for a Four-Channel Model

Researchers from a variety of fields have demonstrated the importance of communication in the management of emergencies. In fact, communication is arguably a core function that, if practiced effectively, can significantly enhance preparedness, improve coordination and cooperation, empower the public, facilitate logistics, reduce public anxiety and generally limit and mitigate harm. Much of this research on emergency communication, however, fails to capture the complex elements of the communication process, including the multiple stakeholders involved, the complex interactions between agencies, the diverse needs of various publics and the evolving role of the mass media and new communication technologies including social networks. While emergency management approaches typically view communication as a static, one-way process, current approaches emphasize the dynamic features of communication.In this work, we seek to characterize the role of the public as participants (via social networking) in the process of emergency communication. In doing so, we draw upon research associated with communication between emergency response agencies on mass media and disasters. A four-channel model of communication is proposed as a way to connect previous research and represent the dynamics of emergency communication taking into account the use of new mobile technologies especially cell phones and internet-based tools. We argue that this model offers a technological enhancement to the use of emergent networks commonly found in the aftermath of large-scale emergencies. We then discuss ways in which the four-channel model could change the characterization of the emergency management communication structure.