Who should fire department employees refer media inquiries to?

Fire department employees should refer media inquiries to the Public Information Officer (PIO) because the PIO is specifically trained and designated to handle all communication with the media. This role is crucial in ensuring that accurate information is disseminated and that the department's messaging is consistent and aligns with official communications strategies. The PIO acts as the liaison between the fire department and the public, managing the flow of information during emergencies and routine inquiries alike. This helps to maintain the department's integrity and effectively manage public perception. Other departments, such as Human Resources or the Chief of Operations, may not have the specific protocols or training necessary to handle media inquiries appropriately, which is why the PIO's role is vital in this context.