5.3 On-scene reporting techniques and safety considerations

Breaking news reporting demands quick thinking and adaptability. On-scene techniques like skilled interviewing, keen observation, and vivid descriptions bring stories to life. Reporters must balance capturing the moment with staying safe, both physically and emotionally.

Safety is paramount when covering unfolding events. From physical hazards to emotional trauma, reporters face various risks. Proper planning, situational awareness, and self-care strategies help journalists navigate dangerous situations while delivering impactful stories to their audience.

On-scene reporting techniques

Interviewing techniques

Top images from around the web for Interviewing techniques

• 

  Understanding Listening | Boundless Communications View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Listening | Business Communication Skills for Managers View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Interviewing a source: Tips View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Understanding Listening | Boundless Communications View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Listening | Business Communication Skills for Managers View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Interviewing techniques

• 

  Understanding Listening | Boundless Communications View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Listening | Business Communication Skills for Managers View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Interviewing a source: Tips View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Understanding Listening | Boundless Communications View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Listening | Business Communication Skills for Managers View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• On-scene reporting requires a combination of interviewing, observation, and descriptive skills to gather and convey information effectively
• Interviewing techniques for on-scene reporting include:
  • Identifying relevant sources (eyewitnesses, affected individuals, law enforcement, emergency responders)
  • Asking open-ended questions to elicit detailed responses
  • Active listening and accurately recording responses
  • Asking follow-up questions to clarify information and gather more details

Observation skills

• Observation skills involve carefully surveying the scene, noting key details, and identifying potential story elements or angles
• Reporters should use their senses to gather information:
  • Sights (visual details, layout of the scene)
  • Sounds (background noise, conversations, announcements)
  • Smells (smoke, chemicals, food)
  • Tactile sensations (temperature, texture of objects)
• Observations should be objective and avoid making assumptions or drawing premature conclusions

Descriptive writing techniques

• Descriptive writing techniques help convey the scene's atmosphere, emotions, and impact to the audience
• Use vivid and specific language to paint a mental picture of the scene:
  • Sensory details (colors, sounds, textures)
  • Figurative language (metaphors, similes) when appropriate
• Descriptions should be concise and focused on the most relevant and impactful elements of the scene
• Examples of descriptive writing:
  • "The acrid smell of smoke filled the air, as flames licked the sides of the building."
  • "Shattered glass crunched underfoot, glinting in the flashing emergency lights."

Safety risks in reporting

Physical risks and mitigation strategies

• On-scene reporting often involves potentially hazardous situations (natural disasters, accidents, violent incidents)
• Physical risks may include:
  • Debris and unstable structures
  • Hazardous materials (chemicals, smoke, fire)
  • Dangerous individuals or crowds
• Reporters should maintain a safe distance from any immediate threats and follow instructions from emergency personnel
• Wearing appropriate protective gear can help mitigate some physical risks:
  • Hard hats in construction or disaster zones
  • Reflective vests for visibility in traffic or crowds

Emotional and psychological risks

• Emotional and psychological risks can arise from witnessing traumatic events or interacting with distressed individuals
• Reporters should be aware of signs of emotional distress in themselves and others:
  • Anxiety, irritability, or mood swings
  • Difficulty concentrating or sleeping
  • Intrusive thoughts or memories related to the event
• Seek support when needed:
  • Debriefing with colleagues or editors
  • Accessing professional counseling or therapy services
• Maintaining professional boundaries and practicing self-care can help manage the emotional impact of on-scene reporting

Planning and communication strategies

• Strategies to mitigate safety risks include thorough planning, situational awareness, and effective communication
• Research potential hazards and emergency procedures before arriving on the scene
• Regularly assess the situation and be prepared to adapt or withdraw if conditions become unsafe
• Establish clear communication channels and protocols:
  • Regular check-ins with the newsroom
  • Emergency contact information for all on-scene team members
  • Backup plans for communication in case of technology failure

Adapting to changing circumstances

Monitoring the physical environment

• Situational awareness involves continuously monitoring and assessing the environment for potential risks, developments, or opportunities
• Reporters should be attuned to changes in the physical environment:
  • Shifting weather conditions (rain, wind, temperature)
  • Crowd dynamics (size, movement, mood)
  • Emergency response activities (arrival of additional personnel, changes in perimeter)
• Adapt reporting techniques in response to changing physical conditions:
  • Positioning (moving to a safer or more advantageous location)
  • Interview subjects (seeking new sources as the situation evolves)
  • Be prepared to quickly relocate or seek shelter if necessary

Observing social and emotional dynamics

• Observe changes in the emotional or social dynamics of the scene:
  • Escalating tensions or conflicts
  • Emerging storylines or perspectives
  • Shifts in public opinion or community response
• Adjust interviewing approaches or story angles to reflect new developments or perspectives
• Remain flexible and open to pursuing unexpected leads or narratives as the situation evolves

Reassessing priorities and focus

• Continuously reassess priorities and focus on the most relevant and impactful elements of the unfolding story
• Balance the need for timely reporting with the importance of accuracy and context
• Be prepared to adapt reporting plans or techniques in response to:
  • New information or evidence
  • Directives from editors or news organization
  • Changes in access or availability of sources

Empathy in breaking news reporting

Approaching affected individuals with compassion

• Empathy involves understanding and sharing the feelings of others, while sensitivity requires being aware of and responsive to the emotional impact of the situation
• Reporters should approach individuals affected by the event with compassion and respect:
  • Use a calm and reassuring tone when interviewing victims, witnesses, or grieving individuals
  • Avoid asking unnecessarily intrusive or insensitive questions
  • Respect individuals' right to privacy or refusal to comment
• Be mindful of the potential impact of the reporting process on those involved, and prioritize their well-being over the pursuit of the story

Providing resources and support

• Provide resources or referrals for support services when appropriate:
  • Contact information for crisis hotlines or counseling services
  • Directions to emergency shelters or aid stations
• Avoid actions or statements that could be perceived as exploitative or insensitive:
  • Respect personal space and boundaries
  • Refrain from sharing graphic details or images without clear journalistic purpose
• Consider the broader impact of the story on the affected community and strive to provide accurate, balanced, and contextual reporting

Maintaining self-care and boundaries

• Recognize the importance of self-care and emotional boundaries for reporters covering traumatic or distressing events
• Practice strategies for managing stress and emotional reactions:
  • Debriefing with colleagues or trusted friends
  • Engaging in relaxation techniques (deep breathing, meditation)
  • Seeking professional support (counseling, therapy)
• Maintain a healthy work-life balance and prioritize personal well-being:
  • Taking breaks and setting limits on work hours
  • Engaging in hobbies or activities unrelated to work
  • Connecting with supportive friends and family members
• Sustaining effective and empathetic reporting over time requires ongoing attention to physical, emotional, and mental health