Thursday, January 9, 2014

10 MEDIA GUIDELINES IN COVERING A HOSTAGE SITUATION

Photo from the internet

•       Ensure your safety first
•       Do not be a negotiator
•       As much as possible delay the reporting. Do not “go live.”
•       Take great caution in interviewing family members of the hostage taker
•       Notify authorities immediately if the hostage taker calls  the newsroom
•       Do not give information that can cause pressure to the hostage taker.
•       Do not sensationalize, exaggerate, or include your personal opinion in reporting.
•       Establish connection with the authorities.
•       Always be sensitive.
•       Always consider accuracy.


Authors Note: This media guidelines was used when we had a conference, held at Bicol University College of Arts and Letters, one year ago. 

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