Communications Portfolio

Overview

Led by the Chief Communications Officer, the Communications Portfolio provides critical support and guidance for all NDEM programs, aiming to enhance Nevada’s resilience in collaboration with local, state, tribal, and federal partners. Serving both residents and tourists, this portfolio aligns with the five components of the emergency management cycle: prevention, protection, mitigation, response, and recovery. 

  

The program adheres to the National Incident Management System (NIMS) guidelines for creating and distributing coordinated messaging across all levels of government and emergency response entities. Public Information Officers (PIOs) use tools such as Joint Information Systems (JIS) and Joint Information Centers (JIC) to ensure consistency, accuracy, and efficiency in communication efforts. Maintaining transparency and providing reliable updates, the public information program fosters public confidence, aids in disaster response coordination, and enhances overall community resilience. Public Information supports trust and clarity in crises and emergencies both natural and man-made through effective messaging across all communication channels. 

 
Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful emergency management, accessible information is delivered to the public, stakeholders, and emergency personnel before, during, and after emergencies. This portfolio focuses on building trust, managing information flow, and fostering collaboration, and plays a vital role in advancing community preparedness and resilience across Nevada. 

Public Information Program

This program ensures the dissemination of accurate and timely information to the public through various channels, maintaining trust and minimizing misinformation before, during, and after critical incidents. The program’s goals include minimizing misinformation, addressing public concerns proactively, and delivering life-saving information through multiple communication platforms, including press releases, social media, websites, and live briefings. Public Information also emphasizes inclusivity by ensuring messaging is accessible to diverse audiences, including those with disabilities or limited English proficiency.

External Affairs Program

This program facilitates collaboration and engagement with stakeholders at the local, state, tribal, and federal levels to ensure transparency and effective collaboration in emergency management initiatives. External affairs focus on aligning communication efforts with the governor’s office, and partner agencies to build relationships and strengthen resilience statewide.

Brand Management Program

This program develops and upholds a consistent and professional identity for NDEM and local, state, tribal, and federal partners on various incidents to enhance public trust and recognition. By creating a unified brand image and messaging, brand management ensures NDEM’s information during Blue Skies” and “Grey Skies” resonates with residents, tourists, partners, and stakeholders alike.

Crisis Communications Program

This program coordinates rapid, clear, and effective communication during emergencies to manage public perception and response. Crisis Communications ensures that essential updates, warnings, and guidance are disseminated to protect lives and property during critical incidents.

Strategic Program

This program implements strategic awareness campaigns and materials to educate the public on preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. Marketing fosters community engagement and drives proactive participation in emergency management programs, contributing to a more resilient Nevada.

Marketing Program

Develops campaigns and strategies to raise awareness, encourage preparedness, and foster community engagement in emergency management initiatives.