Who serves as the go-between for command and the media, relaying information on the incident and response efforts?

• A. Liaison Officer
• B. Public Information Officer
• C. Safety Officer
• D. Incident Commander

Answer: (B)

The Public Information Officer handles communications with the public and media, serving as the bridge between command and outside information. This role is specifically tasked with relaying accurate, timely updates about the incident and the response, coordinating media inquiries, and issuing official statements so messaging stays consistent with the incident plan. They may lead media briefings and work with a Joint Information Center to manage information flow, while safeguarding sensitive details and avoiding rumors. The Liaison Officer connects with other agencies but isn’t the primary media spokesperson. The Safety Officer focuses on safety for responders and operations, not information dissemination. The Incident Commander sets overall command and objectives, but the daily media communications are managed by the Public Information Officer.