2005 News

May 25, 2005
County And Municipal Officials Gather For Crisis Communications Seminar

Nearly 65 Bucks County, municipal and law enforcement officials took part in a day-long training session yesterday that focused on improving communication skills among those most likely to be called into action during weapons of mass destruction incidents and other major disasters within the county.

The seminar, led by James E. Lukaszewski, a crisis communications strategist, presented techniques to effectively communicate and respond to the public immediately following a critical incident. The seminar was held at Spring Mill Manor in Ivyland.

An internationally recognized speaker on crisis management, ethics, media relations and public affairs, Lukaszewski lectured the group throughout the day on the power of language, the ingredients of leadership and the importance of trust building. He also stressed the importance of inter-agency communication, understanding victims' needs and the delivery of timely and accurate information.

A major portion of the class included hands-on crisis response development.

"The public relies heavily on its officials for steady, accurate information and solutions during times of crisis. I was pleased to see the level of participation and interest from those across the emergency management spectrum, both within the county and throughout the townships and boroughs," Commissioner Chairman Charles H. Martin said.

In addition to Martin, Commissioner James F. Cawley, Esq., Bucks County President Judge David W. Heckler and Chief Operating Officer David Sanko also attended part of the session. The Bucks County Commissioners' Office of Public Information arranged the seminar, with funding from the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency through Bucks County's Emergency Management Agency.