The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has emphasised the importance of personal safety among journalists in the discharge of their duties.
MCK Kisumu Regional Coordinator Evans Teddy told journalists to prioritise their safety as well as that of their colleagues while reporting from volatile environments, adding that knowledge of first aid skills enhances personal safety of journalists.
“Personal safety is our number one priority. While the necessity for the right information at the right time has not changed over the decades, no story is worth your life”, said Mr Teddy during a safety training with the Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) in Busia County.
A representative from the Office of the Governor of Busia County Mr Solomon Abwaku told journalists that possessing basic knowledge of handling critical situations is a form of crisis management.
“Having some basic knowledge to handle critical situations can keep things from going from bad to worse. Temporary yet immediate treatment will keep the victim’s condition from deteriorating until the emergency response is ready to take over”, noted Mr Abwaku.
KRCS Safety Officer Joseph Omondi highlighted the importance of early preparedness during emergencies stating accidents are inevitable hence the need to be prepared.