ABSTRACT
The image that people have of an individual school is often shaped by how it copes in a crisis. The crisis could be on a small scale, such as having to close because of bad weather. Tragically, it might be dealing with a major disaster. Ultimately, people outside the school will usually need to be told quickly, accurately and effectively about a situation. There is a need for people to know relevant information. If this is not given in a controlled and planned way, then the crisis can become worse. Telephone lines become permanently engaged, LEA of®cials are not able to make contact, inaccurate information is issued ± confusion and panic can result.
