The Phoenix Fire Department Public Affairs Section is responsible for helping to communicate to the public important safety messages, as well as the good job men and women of the Phoenix Fire Department do every day. This is done by the Public Information Officers and support staff by giving information on emergency incidents, as well as providing interviews and demonstrations on life safety issues.
The primary responsibility of the Public Information Officer (PIO) is to respond quickly to emergency incidents, and act as a positive liaison with the news media. Providing accurate information in a timely manner is essential to media relations. The PIO also advises the media of important news events through the Media Alert System.
The PFD also certifies Fire Journalists through it's annual Media Academy. The Media Academy is a great opportunity for the PFD to share insight into the training and operations at fire, medical and rescue emergencies, and for the media to share ideas on how the PFD can help serve them better in their reporting of news. The participants take part in a 40-hour class, consisting of lecture, as well as hands-on demonstrations. Once certified, the journalists are issued fire department gear (turnouts, helmet, etc.), and can enter incident scenes much closer than non-certified journalists.
Public Affairs Office: 602-534-0953
