Who is responsible for collecting, evaluating, and displaying information during an incident?

The Public Information Officer (PIO) plays a crucial role during an incident by managing and disseminating information to the public and media. This officer is responsible for collecting data related to the incident and ensuring that it is evaluated and displayed accurately, focusing on the communication aspects. The PIO works to keep stakeholders informed, coordinates press releases, and responds to inquiries, ensuring that all information shared is consistent and clear.

This function is vital in maintaining public trust and managing the incident's narrative. By providing timely and accurate information, the PIO helps prevent misinformation and potential panic among the public. This role involves close collaboration with other incident command positions but specifically focuses on communication and ensuring that the right information reaches the right audiences.

In contrast, while the Incident Commander oversees the entire incident response, their focus is on tactical operations rather than information dissemination. The Logistics Officer typically manages resources and supplies rather than information collection. The Safety Officer is concerned with maintaining the safety of personnel and may not directly handle public or media communications, which further delineates the specific responsibilities of the Public Information Officer in this context.