Episode 6 of 25: Krisehåndtering: Who Leads When Crisis Hits? The Role of the Public in Emergency Management

In this episode, we explore Chapter 6 of the anthology Crisis Management edited by Tore Hafting (2017), written by Bjørn Ivar Kruke. This chapter sheds light on a frequently overlooked aspect of crisis response: the essential role of the public. Drawing on real-life cases and research, Kruke argues that ordinary citizens often serve as the true first responders during the critical early minutes of a crisis.

We discuss:

• What is a crisis? Definitions and typologies of crises based on predictability, speed, and scale.

• Crisis phases: Prevention, acute response, and recovery as a circular process of preparedness and adaptation.

• The "Golden Hour": The vital period immediately after a crisis where citizen action can save lives before professional responders arrive.

• Citizen capacities: Debunking myths of panic and helplessness; emphasizing altruism, local knowledge, and spontaneous action.

• Ethical and legal expectations: Laws that define the duty to assist, including the Penal Code, Traffic Act, and Health Personnel Act.

• The power of community: How social structures and strong local ties boost crisis resilience.

• Two models of crisis governance:

  • The Military Model – centralized control, command, and order.

  • The Problem-Solving Model – decentralized, cooperative, and rooted in local capabilities.

• Illustrative case studies:

  • The 2014 wildfires in Midt-Norge

  • The 2011 Lavangsdalen traffic accident

  • The 2011 terrorist attacks in Oslo and Utøya

• Norway's preparedness principles: Responsibility, Similarity, Proximity, Cooperation, and the informal Dugnadsprinsippet.

• Planning for citizen involvement: How to include public capacity in training, exercises, and emergency plans.

This episode emphasizes that crisis preparedness must extend beyond professional responders to include the public, whose efforts in the early moments can make the difference between life and death.

Disclaimer:
This podcast is an independent, AI-generated educational resource and is not affiliated with or officially endorsed by Bjørn Ivar Kruke, Tore Hafting, or Vigmostad & Bjørke. While we strive to present accurate information, we do not take responsibility for any errors, omissions, or misinterpretations. Listeners are encouraged to refer to the original book "Crisis Management" for a comprehensive understanding.

Source:
Hafting, T. (ed.) (2017). Crisis Management. Vigmostad & Bjørke AS.