By the time you read this, Twitter could be disbanded (stranger things have happened), Facebook privacy settings will change three times (uh huh), and there will be a new social media platform (don’t worry, I’m a social media coordinator and I have no idea how to use it either). 

The speed at which social media changes is mind-boggling. But there is one constant: A mistake can cost you your job, damage your department’s reputation,  or ruin your relationship with your community. That’s the bad news. The good news is that finding yourself in hot water is entirely preventable by following a few guidelines. 

First thing’s first, though. If your department doesn’t have a social media presence, stop what you’re doing and sign up. It’s easiest to start with Facebook, but depending on what you’re comfortable with, you could give Twitter, Instagram or Nextdoor a try. Go ahead. Stop reading this article and go do it. I’ll be here when you get back. 

Social media is the quickest, easiest and cheapest way to reach people in your communities with life-saving fire prevention information. It’s the quickest and easiest way to provide updates to the media so they can help pass along life-saving fire prevention messages. It’s the quickest and easiest way to show people that you care, that you’re part of the community, and that you’re human.

Educating people doesn’t mean you will be out of a job. But it does mean you’ll save lives and property: Your ultimate goal as firefighters. If you have questions about jumping into the social media world, I can help. Give me a call at 651-201-7570 or email me​. 

In next month’s Social Media Corner, we’ll talk about how to develop a social media policy.