cheers!

In August 2010, the American Red Cross published a survey of 1,058 people ages 18 and older, which showed social media’s importance as a source of information. The survey found:

- 18 percent of respondents said they would turn to social media if calls to 911 were unsuccessful.

- 69 percent said emergency response agencies should regularly monitor their Web sites and social media outlets so they can respond promptly to requests for help posted there.

- 74 percent said they would expect help to arrive within an hour of posting a request on a social media site.

- 52 percent said they would send a text message to an agency on behalf of someone they knew who needed help.

Of course, places like the National Hurricane Center still encourage people facing a life-threatening situation to contact their local fire, police and emergency medical agencies.

Although social media may not be recommended for those in immediate danger, we have already seen mobile devices play a vital role in emergency management. For instance, after the massive earthquake that hit Haiti last year, there were a number of people who tweeted or texted information about individuals trapped in the rubble. Some survivors even sent messages about their location to facilitate their own rescue. Even FEMA has started using social media to send important information about disasters.

We may be in for some surprising changes as social media and national communications collide. If done right, it could be an effective communication tool that saves lives.

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