News Release Templates and Media Checklists
Coordination with the Emergency Management Team
Tom Rotella, Susan Shaw, U.S. Department of Energy
Emergency Public information in a University Setting
Phillip Van Saun, University of California, San Diego
From the First Amendment to Safety First: Working with the Media in Crisis Situations
Ken Lerner, Argonne National Laboratory
Initial News Release Template
Word | PDF
The first news release that is issued by the site/facility after an incident. It is the notification to the public that an event has occurred, who is on the scene, and what the response status is, as well as the impact to the community. It gives initial emergency information.
Key Messages with Supporting Facts
Word | PDF
Provides a list of basic key messages and supporting facts with fill-in-the-blank areas for site- and event-specific information. Provides a place for individuals to summarize their messages and supporting facts. Can be used as an exercise or as a job aide during a real event.
Live Media Interview Checklist for Spokespersons
Word | PDF
For public information officers/spokespersons preparing for live interviews with the media and/or community representatives in the event of a crisis at a National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) site.
Media Telephone Interview Checklist
Word | PDF
Designed to assist the spokesperson and his/her assistants prepare for speaking on the telephone with the media during an emergency while operating in an Incident Command Structure environment.
Pre-Approved News Release Template
Word | PDF
This release may be used by FAX or phone, or as a handout. It can also be used as a template to prepare for a very brief news release.
Spokesperson Draft Fax/Telephone News Release
Word | PDF
Draft format of an initial news release for the spokesperson to deliver over the phone or send via fax. The first in a series of files listed below that provide information for preparing for phone interviews and answering questions over the phone.
Spokesperson Talking Points
Word | PDF
Sample talking points that can be adapted.