All of the foregoing information needs pertain to responders, emergency managers, service providers, and other formal organizations. A different set of information needs pertains to the public. Individuals alone, in families or in neighborhood groups, have both immediate and ongoing information needs. Public information must be distributed via multiple communication channels in order to reach the largest possible proportion of the affected population.

As quickly as possible after the precipitating event, members of the public require accurate information from authoritative sources about the status of the situation and guidance about what to do and what not to do in order to protect themselves.

As the event and response unfold, the public has need for continuing information about lingering or emerging threats to their safety and well-being, as well as ongoing advice about what they should and should not do for personal protection and to avoid interfering with response activities.

As the event moves into the recovery stage, those affected must be instructed about the status and availability of infrastructure and public services. They also require clear information about services and assistance programs and how they can take advantage of them. As the recovery progresses, public information must encourage and guide people to return to normalcy.

Private citizens require information for preparedness, just as public agencies, businesses, and community organizations do. Individuals need this information to understand their likely vulnerability to known threats and to plan responses that will help them protect themselves without jeopardizing the safety of others.