The five components for effective early warning communication
This guide is primarily intended for policymakers and practitioners to appreciate the systemic issues underlying early warnings and early action protocols' effectiveness (or lack of effectiveness). It complements the 2017 Multi-hazard Early Warning Systems: A Checklist, a “practical, non-technical reference tool to ensure that the major elements of an effective early warning system are in place”. It follows the approach of that document with non-technical checklists under each of the 5 components.
The findings from the Risk Communication Working Group, summarized in this report, are consolidated into five key components for effective early warning and early action (EWEA) communication:
- An in-depth understanding of the broader information ecosystem;
- A community-centric risk culture;
- Inclusive and participatory design processes;
- A robust communication strategy;
- Iterative learning.
As much as possible, this report provides additional resources for enhancing early warning and early action mechanisms. This report’s authors hope that incorporating the 5 components of risk communication presented here and utilizing the additional resources will not only strengthen anticipatory actions but also foster more resilient and informed local communities.
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