Public Information Officers -BoatBeat

Accident Response Tips: Public Information Officers

Public Information Officers

Public information officers play a critical supporting role in recreational boating safety.

Each interaction between public information officers and reporters offers the possibility for educational outreach to the public.

Law enforcement officers or PIOs responding to the media relative to boating accidents should be trained to always answer three questions, whether they are “asked” or not.

Were life jackets available and/or worn and would it or did it make a difference regarding this accident?
Were alcohol or drugs a possible contributing factor regarding the investigated accident?
Were there possible violations of the rules of the road that are being investigated regarding this accident?

+ RESPONDING TO QUESTIONS ABOUT A BOATING ACCIDENT

Keep these tips in mind as you respond to questions about a boating accident.

Know what can be discussed (stay focused on facts about the type of accident, causes and trends).
Do not share specifics of accident currently under investigation (details, active investigations, names, details about minor age victims).
Share safety and education information (facts about the type of accident, without blame).
Do not be afraid to say, “I don’t know, but I’ll find out.” Do not say, “no comment.”
Answer questions, not statements (stick to the facts about the type of accident).
Answer with knowledge and facts (again, stick to the facts of the type of accident).

+ TOP 10 PRIMARY CONTRIBUTING FACTORS IN BOATING ACCIDENTS

Operator inattention
Operator inexperience
Improper lookout
Machinery failure
Excessive speed
Alcohol use
Navigation rules violation
Sharp turn
Restricted vision
Failure to vent

Source: U.S. Coast Guard Recreational Boating Statistics 2015

RESOURCES

ACCIDENT RESPONSE CASE STUDIES Learn about best practices and missed opportunities.

MEDIA ASSETS Photo library, infographics, social media tips, and more.