Tasks and objectives of communication
For rescue services, the objective of communications is to improve the safety and security of society; in other words, to prevent accidents. Another objective is to increase people's awareness of being prepared for incidents and accidents and of being able to act in them.
For rescue service authorities, statutory communications include:
- providing information on accidents
- issuing warnings to the public
- providing information on public safety
- providing information on decision-making and services, for example on the prevention of incidents and accidents, and on rescue operations, preparedness and civil defence (in some wellbeing services counties, rescue services also provide prehospital emergency medical services).
Communications are part of the authorities' statutory preparedness for incidents and emergencies and management of situations. Communications by rescue services also include regular organisational communications.
Principles of communication
Common principles guide the communications in rescue services. By committing to the common principles, rescue services not only support the achievement of the communications objectives, but they also reinforce the integration of rescue services and help people form a uniform picture of the sector.
- Communications are an essential part of all rescue service activities.
- Communications are goal-oriented and systematic.
- Communications are reliable, clear and timely.
- Communications are interactive and equal and they use multiple channels.
Key messages
The rescue services shared key messages refer to the national strategic objectives, supporting their implementation. The shared key messages also reinforce the picture of an integrated rescue service.
- We are all responsible for everyday safety and security and our individual emergency planning.
- Rescue services are prepared to protect the population in all circumstances.
- Rescue services take into account the risks and changes affecting the operating environment.
- We treat people equally regardless of their gender, identity or background.
Communications target groups
Rescue services communicate to society as a whole. In order to maximise effectiveness, the planning and implementation of communications must take into account the needs of target groups and stakeholders. In each case, both internal and external target groups and stakeholders need to be considered.
Key target groups for rescue services communications:
- own personnel
- collaborating authorities and partners
- general public
- media
- political decision-makers and public administration.
