Communication and Coordination:
Communication
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### Outside Communication

Laboratories may be contacted about an incident by many different organizations, which may include:

- Hospitals and clinical laboratories
- Local and state public health agencies
- State drinking water agencies
- Local, state, and federal law enforcement
- Department of Homeland Security
- Neighboring water systems

In many situations, an Incident Commander (IC) may appoint a designated PIO responsible for all communications with the press and public. There also may be a Liaison Officer (LNO) that is responsible for coordinating with other agencies and organizations. The Information Officer Report tool within the Water Contaminant Information Tool (WCIT) can be used by the IC, PIO, or LNO to facilitate communication with other entities, public, and press.

Each laboratory should follow their own local and state, as well as federal guidelines for communications with the press and the public. Sometimes communications may occur outside the structure chosen by the IC, but the laboratory POC should notify the appropriate person (e.g., IC, PIO, etc.) as soon as possible.

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