Why is community communication emphasized in EO 1.21?

Community communication is emphasized in EO 1.21 because fostering transparency and building trust is essential for effective emergency response and management. When agencies communicate openly with the community, it helps ensure that community members are informed about risks, resources, and actions being taken. This level of transparency encourages community engagement and collaboration, which can significantly enhance the overall efforts during emergencies.

Trust is a critical component in any community response scenario; residents are more likely to follow guidelines, participate in preparedness initiatives, and cooperate with emergency services if they feel trusted and informed. By prioritizing communication, agencies can maintain a strong relationship with the community, which ultimately leads to more efficient and coordinated responses to incidents. Effective community engagement also allows for feedback loops that can improve both policy-making and operational responses in the future.