Which document is used to authorize the release of information to the media and the public?

• A. Incident Action Plan
• B. Operational policies
• C. Standard operating guidelines
• D. Public information release protocol

Answer: (D)

Public information release protocol is the mechanism that authorizes what can be shared with the media and the public. This document defines who has the authority to approve statements, what information may be released, and the process for coordinating messages so they’re accurate, consistent, and timely during an incident. It helps keep messages aligned with incident objectives and prevents unvetted details or conflicting information from reaching the public.

The other documents serve different purposes. The incident action plan outlines the objectives and tactics for managing the incident, not who may speak on its behalf. Operational policies set broad rules for how operations are conducted, and standard operating guidelines provide procedures for routine tasks. None of these specifically govern who can authorize or how information is released to the media, which is why the public information release protocol is the best fit.