Risk Communication Toolkit for Flooding in Oregon
Designed for Oregon’s local health departments, the Risk Communication Toolkit for Flooding includes information about common health risks posed by floods, highlights communications best practices during emergencies, and offers a variety of sample communication materials to address risks related to flooding. While not explicit about the link between climate change and the increasing frequency and severity of rain events, the toolkit serves to help local health departments quickly and effectively educate the public about risks during an emergency.
The toolkit is divided into two sections. The first focuses on safety measures to take during flooding events, and the second during recovery from flooding events. The first section identifies common health impacts from flooding, which include risks related to contaminated drinking water, well flooding, carbon monoxide poisoning, as well as injuries and risks related to home reentry, food safety, and other concerns stemming from power outages.
The toolkit also includes talking points for flooding which can be used by local health departments when communicating with the media to provide information on how individuals and communities can mitigate risk. Sample press releases and social media messages are also included to communicate similar messages to a broader audience.
The second section focuses on steps to take after a flood, such as how a local health department can communicate important information, and ways that residents can mitigate new or emerging risks. By providing templates and sample messaging, local health departments are prepared to respond quickly. For instance, a sample press release and talking points included in the toolkit offers recommendations for how people returning to their homes after a flood can prevent injuries and safely remove mold. Sample social media messages for local health agency Facebook and Twitter accounts to post are also included, and the user friendly messages are often accompanied by links to additional resources.
Publication Date: 2014
Related Organizations:
- Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division
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- Communication
- Tool (general)
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