At the incident scene, who is responsible for handling media inquiries?

The Public Information Officer (PIO) plays a critical role in managing media inquiries at an incident scene. This position is specifically designated for the purpose of communicating with the public and the media, ensuring accurate information is disseminated regarding the incident. The PIO serves as the official spokesperson, which helps to control the message being communicated and minimizes confusion or misinformation.

Having a dedicated individual for media inquiries allows other key personnel, like the Incident Commander and Operations Section Chief, to focus on their critical tasks related to managing the incident and coordinating response efforts without the distraction of addressing media concerns. This leads to a more efficient and effective response to the incident, where clear and accurate information is paramount.