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5N. RESPONDING TO NEWS MEDIA INQUIRIES <br />The media will arrive on the scene immediately following an explosion, spill, <br />fire, gas main rupture or other catastrophe. An emergency intensifies events <br />for everyone. Therefore, responding to news media inquiries requires special <br />attention. <br />Reporters arriving on the scene of an emergency will try to gather information <br />from any available source. The only authorized spokespersons for PG&E are News <br />Services Department personnel. All media inquiries are to be immediately <br />directed to the appropriate News Service person. <br />1. Anyone receiving an inquiry from the media regarding environmental aspects <br />of Company business should immediately direct the inquiry to the Regional <br />Public Affairs Manager and the General Office News Services Department. <br />2. Notify your shift supervisor or department head of the inquiry. <br />The following are recommendations on how to deal with media representatives. <br />What you SHOULD do: <br />a. Do name a specific person as key contact with the PG&E News Services <br />Department and the media. <br />b. Do call the PG&E News Services Department immediately. <br />c. Do keep the PG&E News Services representative informed of all <br />developments at all times. <br />d. Do rely on the News Services Department to coordinate with the media <br />at all times. <br />e. Do maintain a friendly, cooperative relationship with reporters. <br />f. Do note all questions asked by the media so that answers can be <br />obtained. <br />What You should NOT do: <br />— a. Do not "wing it." Respond only if you know the answer. <br />b. Do not play down the seriousness of the situation. <br />c. Do not be falsely optimistic. <br />5-40 <br />