As the motto of the Boy Scouts of America advises, law enforcement agencies should always be prepared, whether for a critical incident or for interaction with the media. Even occasional media communication requires preparation, not unlike critical incidents.

The selection and placement of the police public information officer (PIO) is an executive decision that can help an agency disseminate its message; can facilitate better interaction among the agency, the media, and the public; and can help put police administrators at ease when dealing with the media. A full-time PIO may be necessary for large agencies, whereas for small to midsize departments such a position might be considered an unattainable luxury. However, all agencies of every size should ensure that they have staff with the skills and training to work with the media.