By Bill Carey
FireRescue1
First responders carry the immense responsibility of responding to emergencies and protecting the public. In today’s digitally connected world, many first responders are also active on social media, sharing glimpses of their professional and personal lives. However, when it comes to tragedies like line-of-duty deaths (LODDs), first responders who are not public information officers (PIOs) should refrain from posting about these incidents on social media until official confirmation is made and complete information can be shared. Here’s why:
1. Respect for the families of the fallen
One of the most critical reasons is the need to respect the privacy and emotions of the families affected. LODDs are traumatic events, and the families of the fallen deserve to be informed in a controlled, private manner. Social media posts can inadvertently notify families before official channels have had the opportunity to deliver the news with care and support. Learning about a loved one’s death through a social media post can compound their trauma and grief.
2. Preserving operational integrity
LODDs often occur in the context of ongoing incidents, such as active emergencies or criminal investigations. Premature or unauthorized social media posts can compromise operational security by revealing sensitive details. This could hinder the response efforts, put other responders at risk, or affect the integrity of investigations.
PIOs are trained to communicate information in a way that balances public transparency with the need to maintain operational security. First responders without this training may unintentionally disclose details that could have serious consequences.
3. Avoiding misinformation
The immediate aftermath of a LODD is often chaotic, with incomplete or conflicting information circulating. Unofficial social media posts risk spreading misinformation, which can lead to confusion, rumors and unnecessary distress within the community. PIOs are responsible for ensuring that any public statements are accurate and aligned with official reports, minimizing the risk of miscommunication.
4. Upholding professionalism
First responders are representatives of their organizations, whether they are on or off duty. Posting about LODDs without authorization can appear unprofessional, even if the intent is genuine or heartfelt. Such posts may reflect poorly on the department, potentially damaging public trust and the reputation of the agency.
5. Legal and ethical considerations
Many public safety agencies have social media policies in place that strictly regulate what can and cannot be shared by employees. Unauthorized posts about LODDs could violate these policies, leading to disciplinary action. Additionally, sharing sensitive details without permission might breach confidentiality agreements or privacy laws.
6. Letting trained professionals handle public communication
Public information officers are specifically trained to handle the dissemination of information during crises, including LODDs. They work closely with leadership, legal teams and family liaisons to ensure that communication is accurate, sensitive and timely. By allowing PIOs to manage public messaging, first responders can focus on their primary responsibilities: serving their communities and supporting one another.
What first responders can do instead
- Show Support Internally: Channel your grief and solidarity into supporting your team, attending memorials, or offering assistance to the families of the fallen.
- Follow Protocols: If your department has guidelines for social media use, adhere to them strictly.
- Share Official Posts: Amplify the department’s official messages by sharing posts from verified accounts, ensuring the information you share is accurate and appropriate.
- Provide Feedback: If you believe public messaging could be improved, offer constructive feedback through proper channels rather than taking matters into your own hands.
Final thoughts
LODDs are deeply emotional events that affect not only first responders but also the communities they serve. While the impulse to share condolences or spread awareness on social media is natural, it’s vital to remember the importance of respecting families, maintaining professionalism, and protecting the integrity of ongoing operations. By refraining from posting about such tragedies, first responders ensure that these sensitive matters are handled with the dignity, care, and accuracy they deserve.
