A friend in need : emergency responders' social media use and the effects on response practices

The popularity and ubiquity of social media (SM) have permeated private and public institutions. These last ones, and in particular those governmental agencies that deal with emergencies, have begun using social media in their operations. The impact of SM as a tool within emergency relief organizations and their external activities is still under research. Using qualitative and quantitative data this study aims to identify the various ways in which emergency responders use social media. The study also analyzes for which purposes emergency responders use SM and the impact this has on the organization.