Next Steps after acknowledgement
Next Steps after Acknowledgement
- These depend to a large extend on the nature and scale of the crisis
- In some cases a series of mini updates will be required
- In some cases post-event actions (investigation, safety or administration measures) will be required
- In most a detailed statement will be required
- And in some cases a press conference will be required
- If casualties are moved to hospital then it is the role of the hospital to make statements re medical outcomes … not you
- Sample follow tweet/statement in such cases:
A driver injured on Stage 7 of the X Rally has been removed to ABC Hospital following initial treatment at the scene of the accident by emergency teams.
Cancellation of the Event
- This is a matter for the Stewards as per FIA regulations
- Such a decision depends on the severity of the situation
- Once the COC has been made aware he/she must advise the CMT and plan communication to the public and other stakeholders
The Statement
- Key Facts
- Measures taken to address the issue
- If appropriate you are cooperating with relevant authorities
- Successful implementation of the emergency plan
- Stress the good safety record of motorsport
- If appropriate/necessary that a full enquiry will be carried out
- If necessary Family(ies) have been contacted
The ideal spokesperson:
- A senior official of the event, ideally Clerk of the Course or Event Director
- Event uniform
- Able to articulate
- Possesses good event and motorsport knowledge
- Comfortable with the media (ideally has had media training)
Press Conference
- Venue
- Easy access for media
- Event HQ
- Notice issued by press office to all media / accredited press on event.
- Do not allow non-media attend
- Preparation
- Rehearse statement
- Anticipate questions
- Don’t drink alcohol or coffee before
- Review media listening reports
Delivery
- Don’t look directly at the camera but do keep eye contact with reporters
- Do not use technical motorsport words the audience will not understand
- Deliver the important information first
- Try to speak in sound bites of 5-10 second clips that will facilitate selective editing afterwards
- Remember you are the expert
Taking Questions
- Never speculate
- Do not provide additional information when responding that may provide additional negative oxygen for the story
- If you get a question that is outside your remit, say so perhaps directing the question to the appropriate source e.g. Hospital concerned