Warning dissemination

The use of a combination of different audio and visual mechanisms to disseminate early warning messages is the best way to ensure it reaches everyone in time.

Consult with representative organisations of different at-risk groups in the community. Analyse barriers of the existing early warning dissemination together with them.

To make early warning dissemination more accessible:

• Use audio signals such as bells, alarms, sirens, drums, radio/TV or loudspeaker announcements to reach persons who are blind or have low vision.
• Provide visual early warning with flags or lights flashing together with alarms and sirens and text messages on TV or by mobile phone to reach persons who are deaf or hard of hearing. Combine text with pictures, gestures and the use of body language where necessary.
• Combine oral information with pictures and sign language (or other forms of gestures or body language, as not all deaf persons know sign language). Whenever possible identify the preferred communication way persons who are deaf and or hard of hearing.
• Present printed materials (posters, leaflets) with short messages in easy-to-read format and in braille.
• Use illustrations that include women and men with different disabilities and different ages. Show persons with disabilities in a positive and dignified way.
• Make sure early warning systems are available and functioning in residential institutions and hospitals where persons with disabilities, children and older persons reside (e.g. retirement home, orphanage, psychiatric hospitals, home for persons with disabilities).