Breaking news is information about an event that is unfolding or has just occurred, and it requires immediate reporting to keep the public informed. It can be anything from a plane crash to a building fire. Because of the urgency, it’s important for journalists to be able to prioritize speed while still ensuring accuracy. This often means providing just the essential facts initially, and then updating as more details become available. Digital platforms have also changed how breaking news is disseminated, requiring journalists to constantly update their stories in real-time.
When a breaking news story occurs, media organizations must make plans to interrupt their regular programming. This includes deciding how to notify the audience, what content will be presented, and how to handle questions from viewers. Media managers should consider having a plan for closed captioning as well, so they can quickly notify their closed-captioning company to prepare an updated script.
Be careful when relying on eyewitness accounts of an event, as they can be inaccurate. It’s easy to assume someone has died, especially when they are wounded, but it’s important not to report it until the person’s condition has been confirmed. It’s always a good idea to have a colleague sift through eyewitness accounts and check with authorities before deciding to broadcast them.
It’s also important to remember not to report the names of injured or deceased individuals until their families have been notified and confirmed. It can be especially harmful to children to see their parents’ or siblings’ names on television or the Internet.