Lansing Fire Department has been very proactive in both public and media relations.  We have three Firefighters that are cross-trained to act in the position of PIO.  On a rotating basis one of them is available to respond to media or disaster needs on a twenty four hour basis.  The job has two basic functions, cover the proactive and reactive aspects of public and media concerns. 

 In the first role they respond to media questions on daily incidents (to get facts out about responses). 

The second role would be a proactive response in addressing concerns of citizens.  PIO's don't just get the word out about fire responses, that is only a portion of our departments 14,500 (plus) yearly calls.  Other examples would include medical, extrication, entrapment, hazard mitigation,  hazardous materials, building collapse, confined space, water and ice rescue calls.

LFD is also the lead agency for the City of Lansing's Emergency Management Division.  Any activation of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) has a PIO included in it.   They act in the role of media liaison.  Internally they coordinate the release of information during a natural disaster, hazardous materials incident or other significant event.  Activities through the year include training with other city departments, outside agencies and business PIO's.  Coordination during an incident includes working with the mayor, other city departments, medical, industrial and specialty resources as needed. 

The PIO's work with other Prevention, Suppression and Emergency Management Officers to identify trends in hazards that may affect our area.  We work together to determine the best way to give people information to better prepare themselves and protect their families.

Capt. Debra Pacheco           PIO Coordiator
Lt. Margaret Murphy               PIO
Engr. Ignacio Centeno           PIO EOC
Capt. Brad Drury                    PIO Fire Marshal's Office

Email contact to the PIO group