Emergency Communication Plans
Emergency Communication Plans are key to ensuring safety in schools, office buildings, airports, and other public spaces. They should be carefully planned with each scenario and visitor in mind. While quick reactions are crucial in emergencies, digital signage can aid in distributing vital information quickly and widespread when each second matters.
Incorporating a Digital Signage Network into Your Plan
Strategically placed digital signs act as the visual component of mass communications. In order to begin your communication plan, consider the types of events that could happen around your facility. Tailoring the information to each event is yet another benefit of using digital signage.
Next, keep your messaging short and to the point since there is not much time to take in information during an emergency.
Key information should be displayed clearly and concisely. Some things to consider including on your sign are:
- Exit Routes
- Shelter in Place Suggestions
- Relevant Addresses
- Relevant Phone Numbers
- Other Important Event Updates
Bold icons and colors are a great way to attract attention that’s easy for anyone to interpret.
While other forms of communication can be used, like emails, SMS, or push notifications, you won’t always have everyone’s contact information. Below are some examples of events to keep in mind while planning your emergency communications.
1. Every Day Disruptions
Bus delays, shuttle delays, schedule changes are everyday happenings that can inconvenience your visitors, employees, or students. Keeping people informed increases awareness and preparedness.
2. Inclement Weather and Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, tornados, landslides, blizzards, hurricanes, and tsunamis can happen at any time. Digital signage gives you the speed and flexibility to inform everyone of exactly what to do at that moment, decreasing panic and uncertainty.
3. Safety Drills
Fire, earthquake, tornado, and evacuation procedures should be practiced often. But, in the meantime, why not share what to do in the case of these unfortunate events? Reminding people of what to do, where to go, and who to contact lets people know what to expect in these situations.
4. Enforce Protocols or Health Guidelines
Especially during the pandemic, updating protocols and health guidelines for your organization are essential to keeping people safe.
5. Threats and Terrorism
While no one wants to think about threats or terrorism, it is important to plan for each situation. Display evacuation routes, shelter in place orders, and more. Informing people quickly will keep everyone safe and calm.
Conclusion
Utilizing digital signage as a communication tool during emergencies will help streamline your messaging. Quickly disseminate valuable information across any facility.
Use the info above to help you create an Emergency Communication Plan to deploy on your signage network.