When the call comes in, it’s rarely convenient.
A chemical spill at 6:15 a.m. An active shooter. A water main break during the first blizzard in years. A school lockdown during dismissal.
For public information officers, crisis communication doesn’t happen at a desk. It happens in parking lots, command posts, hallways, and occasionally the hood of a cruiser.
That’s why experienced PIOs keep a “Go Bag” — a ready-to-grab kit that contains (almost) everything needed to step into the communications role immediately.
The goal is simple: show up prepared, stay organized, and communicate clearly under pressure.
Here are 25 items every PIO should consider keeping in their Go Bag.
1. Two Fully Charged Portable Phone Batteries
Your phone is your lifeline — to reporters, command staff, and social media. One battery is good. Two is better. Portable batteries (they die when left out, so keep them charged) and solar chargers are great to keep on-hand!
2. Charging Cables (Multiple Types)
Lightning, USB-C, Micro USB. Someone always needs one, and you can never have enough. A “multi charger” is also something to consider.
3. Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot
Cell networks get overloaded during major incidents. A hotspot can save the day when you need to upload photos or push alerts. There are also emergency hotspots like the “Solis Edge” that offer 12GB of bandwidth for free per year.
4. Notebooks (Yes, Paper)
Technology fails. Paper doesn’t.
Also useful when taking notes during briefings or documenting timelines. JGPR staff carry Portage Reporter’s Notebooks. They fit in pockets and purses and are a lifesaver for journalists and PIOs alike. (Link to buy reporter’s notebooks)
5. Multiple Pens and Markers
Bring extras. Someone will always ask to borrow one. Also..pencils don’t freeze.
6. A Printed Media Contact List
Phones die. Signals disappear. Paper contact lists ensure you can still reach reporters.
7. Agency Fact Sheets
Keep quick-reference sheets for:
- Department leadership names (spellings, middle initials etc.)
- Apparatus inventory/mutual aid/run cards
- Staffing levels
- Community statistics
Reporters often ask basic questions in the middle of chaos.
8. Blank Incident Timeline Sheets
Start documenting events immediately. This becomes invaluable for press briefings and after-action reviews.
9. A Small Tripod
Shaky phone videos make agencies look unprepared. Some news outlet is going to ask you to livestream the press conference because they can’t make it down there. A small tripod helps stabilize:
- Media briefings
- Social media updates
- Live streams
10. Clip-On Microphone
Wind, sirens, and generators make audio unusable. A simple lav mic dramatically improves quality. They work with iPhones and can be wireless. You need it. Buy it.
11. Portable LED Light/flashlight
Night scenes are brutal for video. A small rechargeable light fixes that instantly.
12. Extra ID and Agency Credentials
You may need to pass through multiple perimeters or checkpoints. PIOs are notoriously forgotten sometimes.
13. Safety Gear
Depending on your agency, this may include:
- Reflective vest
- Helmet
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
PIOs operate inside incident scenes.
14. Weather Gear
New England PIOs know the drill.
- Rain jacket
- Gloves
- Hat
You may be outside for hours.
15. Granola Bars or Energy Snacks
Incidents often last longer than expected.
Communication decisions get worse when you’re hungry.
16. Water Bottle
Hydration is not optional during long incidents. Collapsible water bottles fit in any Go Bag.
17. Basic First Aid Kit
Bandages, wipes, and basic supplies can help in a pinch.
Also: sunscreen, bug spray, hand santizer.
18. A Backup Flash Drive
Keep templates for:
- Press releases
- Media advisories
- Incident updates
You can plug it into any laptop.
19. Printed Message Templates
Even faster than digital files when you’re under pressure.
Examples:
- Shelter-in-place notices
- Road closure alerts
- Evacuation messaging
20. Map of the Community
Digital maps are great — until your signal drops.
A physical map helps orient reporters and briefings.
21. Sharpies, Poster Boards and Easels
Sometimes the simplest solutions work best for:
- briefing visuals
- staging instructions
- command post signage
22. Industrial Velcro
JGPR keeps Velcro in every go bag. Need to put something somewhere: check! Need to hang an agency sign or logo on a lectern or desk: check!
23. Business Cards
You’ll meet reporters, volunteers, and partner agencies who need to reach you later.
24. Small Toolkit
A multitool or small screwdriver set can help with unexpected equipment issues.
25. A Calm Mindset
The most important item in the bag.
PIOs set the tone for public communication during chaos. Preparation, patience, and professionalism are the tools that matter most.
Final Thought
The job of a public information officer is simple to describe and incredibly difficult to execute:
Turn confusion into clarity.
A well-prepared Go Bag doesn’t just help you respond faster. It helps you respond smarter. Every minute you spend with a dead phone or confused reporters is another minute you aren’t executing your primary job.
When the public needs information most, the last thing a PIO should be doing is looking for a phone charger.