What should be included in the preparation of a news release?

Including the department's contact information and incident-specific details in a news release is essential because it ensures that journalists and the public have accurate information on where to reach the department for follow-up questions or additional information. Incident-specific details such as the nature of the incident, the response by the department, and any relevant outcomes help provide clear context and understanding of the situation to the audience. This kind of transparency also enhances the credibility of the department's communication efforts and helps fulfill its responsibility to keep the community informed.

The mission statement of the department, while important for internal guidance and overall public relations, is not as critical in a specific news release that focuses on a particular incident. Similarly, the history of the department may not be directly relevant to the immediate news at hand. Personal opinions of department staff are generally considered inappropriate for official communications, as they may introduce bias or sensationalism that detracts from the factual nature of a report required in a news release.