In a crisis it is important to have your updated media list in multiple locations and formats because, depending on the emergency, you may not have access to your computer or regular files. It is often a good idea to keep a copy of this document at home if that is an option for you. Or, if you have a network you can access from a remote computer or via the web, keep your media lists in a folder on a shared drive. You could also keep a copy on your PC at home. Ultimately, in a major crisis situation, the news will often get out immediately through local TV stations, but you will still want to have your list of the people you have worked with in the past, who may be willing to listen carefully to your side of the story.

For more information on how to effectively manage communications in time of crisis, we recommend that you check out the instantly-downloadable book Crisis Communication Planning.