Alerting members of the public in the event of a disaster
In the event of a disaster, every minute counts. People need to know quickly what is happening and what they should do. You have several channels at your disposal for this, ranging from NL-Alert to sirens and social media. In this guide, you will find out which channel to use and when, and how to reach non-native speakers and vulnerable groups.
The main warning channels
There isn’t a single channel that reaches everyone at the same time. That’s why you should combine several channels. Below are the most important ones, along with their strengths.
- NL-Alert: a text message sent to virtually all mobile phones in a given area. Suitable for an immediate threat and a specific course of action.
- Sirens: the air-raid siren warns people outdoors and immediately grabs their attention. The message is always the same: go indoors, close windows and doors, and find out what’s happening.
- Social media: quick and versatile for updates, and members of the public can share the message. Suitable for providing information and dispelling rumours.
- Website: the place for comprehensive and constantly updated information that the other channels can link to.
- Regional media: radio and local broadcasters reach people without smartphones and remain important in the event of a power cut or network outage.
When should you use which channel?
The choice depends on the urgency and the message. Is there an immediate danger and do people need to take action straight away? In that case, use NL-Alert and, if necessary, the siren. These reach a large number of people quickly with a single clear instruction. Use social media and your website for updates, background information and answers to questions. This is where you can explain the situation, correct rumours and provide further information. Ensure that all channels convey the same core message. Conflicting messages cause confusion and undermine trust.
Multilingualism and vulnerable groups
Not everyone understands a message in Dutch. Many areas are home to people who have little or no command of Dutch. You should therefore also provide your warning in other languages and in plain language, so that the message reaches everyone. Also bear in mind vulnerable groups: older people, people with disabilities, those with low literacy levels and people without a smartphone. Combine text with clear images or icons and use channels that reach them too, such as local radio, neighbourhood networks and face-to-face contact. CrisisRadar creates multilingual versions of your key message in plain language in a matter of seconds.
Stappenplan
Determine the threat and the area
What is happening, how serious is the danger, and which area is affected? This determines the urgency and your choice of communication channels.
Formulate a short key message
Briefly explain what’s going on, who it applies to and what people need to do. Keep it specific and use clear, straightforward language.
Choose the right channels
In the event of an immediate danger, activate NL-Alert and, if necessary, the siren. You should also use social media and your website to provide updates and explanations.
Make the message multilingual and accessible
Make sure the message is also available in other languages and in plain language, and bear in mind the vulnerable groups you reach through other channels.
Send it quickly and stick to the same core message
Send out the warning without undue delay and ensure that all channels convey the same message.
Follow and update
Keep an eye on the situation, answer questions, set the record straight on rumours and send out updates as soon as there is any news.
Veelgestelde vragen
What is the difference between NL-Alert and the siren?
NL-Alert is a text message sent to mobile phones in a particular area, explaining what is happening and what you should do. The siren is an audible alarm designed primarily to attract attention and always conveys the same message: go indoors, close windows and doors, and seek information. They are often used together.
How can I reach people who don’t speak Dutch?
Make sure your warning is available in other languages and in plain language. Combine text with clear images or icons. CrisisRadar translates your key message into multilingual versions in seconds, so that everyone can understand it.
How do I warn people who don’t have a smartphone?
Do not rely on a single channel. In addition to NL-Alert and social media, make use of sirens, local radio and public address systems. Also consider neighbourhood networks and, where possible, personal contact to reach older people and other vulnerable groups.
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