Emergency risk communication (ERC) is the way in which public health professionals share information to help people make informed decisions to understand risks and protect themselves.
People may have different reactions to emergencies, such as anger, fear, anxiety, and outrage.
These emotions may cause them to go into denial, stigmatize others, and, in rare cases, panic.
Often, these emotions come from a person’s perception of risk, influenced by whether the event provokes low or high outrage.
Intense reactions can generate mental noise, making it challenging for communicators to effectively explain the risks people face and how to remain safe.