To whom should media and unrelated agencies be directed for information during an environmental incident?

• A. The Master
• B. Local authorities
• C. Crew members
• D. The Public Relations Department of the company's head office

Answer: (D)

In an environmental incident, external communications should be handled by the company's Public Relations Department at the head office. This central, authorized channel ensures that all information released to the media and unrelated agencies is accurate, consistent, and approved, preventing conflicting statements or unverified details that could worsen the situation or affect compliance. The PR team coordinates with the incident command to provide official updates, manage press briefings, and funnel inquiries through a single spokesperson. While the captain, local authorities, or crew may have applicable on-scene information, they are not the designated source for external communications, and using them as the primary channel can lead to mixed messages and security or legal risks.