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- Info
A study of wildland fire communications in the United States: Summary report
| Author: |
Clute, K.; Mullins, G. |
| Date: |
2000 |
| Periodical: |
Columbus, OH: School of Natural Resources, Ohio State University. 27 p. |
| Abstract: |
This study explored the current state of wildland fire communications in the United States from the perspective of wildland fire communicators. At the outset, it sought to identify the knowledge, attitudes, skills, and backgrounds of a population of natural resource professionals with wildland fire communication responsibilities. It then queried both the opportunities and barriers they perceived in the course of conducting their day-to-day responsibilities. Utilizing this information as background, the perceived usefulness of the National Wildfire Coordinating Group's wildland fire message themes were explored.<br><br>
The data for the project were obtained from 321 responses to a 13-page questionnaire completed by natural resources professionals working in governmental and non-governmental organizations. The questionnaire was developed utilizing the results of an e-mail administered Delphi instrument and needs assessment of wildland fire communicators. It also drew upon relevant themes identified in the literature. Concepts of social marketing were used as a reporting framework in the data analysis phase.<br><br>
Results of both the Delphi process and questionnaire showed that respondents perceived themselves as having a relatively high level of knowledge and skills with respect to the organization for which they work, its mission or mandate, and its role in the wildland fire management. Respondents' lowest perceived knowledge and skill levels related to communications activities, such as identifying target audiences, developing communication plans and products, and using evaluative feedback. Generally, participants perceived more opportunities than barriers to their wildland fire communication efforts. Significant barriers identified were the lack of sufficient resources and inadequate planning to meet future needs.
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