The LAist has a super interview post with the LAFD on how they are connecting with and ensuring the safety of their community through online technology. Emergency online communication is something I have chewed on with Ed and the gang before but I have never gotten to see a public service organization engaging their citizens online like this before.
On the challenges of online communication:
The biggest challenge is writing in a personal tone – approachable and respectful at the same time – that’s the biggest challenge, it’s not a broadcast, we’re interacting – I get 500 e-mails a day, not including spam jobs, t-shirts, feedback on an incident. The biggest challenge that I face in teaching other dept’s about this – when your on top of the Web 2.0 hill, its not about talking louder, the chief benefit is the feedback you receive, both positive and negative. Meaningful feedback for free is priceless for a public service.
On finding courage to get online:
You know, I have no problem running into a burning building, but it took a while to build the courage to get on the Internet.
Totally impressed. The LAFD has a Twitter account, a YouTube channel, a Blog and so much more. If I was ever to decide to be a firefighter I would definitely move to LA - if just for the Social Media love :)
