PREPARING AND SUBMITTING A MEDIA ALERT
A media alert is intended for more urgent matters. If there is an approaching deadline, such as an event canceled abruptly or scheduled to occur in three days, an alert would be the most appropriate communications tool. Media alerts should be used sparingly and only when something happens that cannot be controlled. They should not be a substitute for lack of planning.

SOME GUIDELINES FOR MEDIA ALERTS

• Keep them short - much shorter than regular releases.

• Avoid quotes, excessive taglines and other non-essential information.

• Clearly identify the newsworthy point and why it should be deemed news.

• Label your alert appropriately in large type of at least 24 points at the top of the page to distinguish it from the other releases a reporter may receive.

• Use media alerts sparingly. Frequent use of media alerts will tarnish your organization's reputation with a reporter - unless the media alert is truly newsworthy and the format is warranted. If reporters identify your organization as a repeat offender in sending inflated media alerts they are sure to dismiss any future media requests.

Sample Media Alert