Fire on the Air: How Local Radio Covered California's Wildfires

Join Fair Media Council CEO and Executive Director Jaci Clement as she sits down with KNX 97.1 FM Los Angeles News and Programming Director Alex Silverman for an inside look at the power of local radio during emergencies. In this episode of FMC Fast Chat, Alex reveals how the team at the 24/7 all-news radio station covered the California wildfires while drawing striking comparisons with New York’s Hurricane Sandy.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• A Lifeline: How KNX 97.1 FM, a trusted 24/7 all-news radio station, becomes a lifeline for millions without power or cell service during crises, ensuring that essential emergency news reaches those who need it most.
• Local Media in Action: Real-life stories of frontline journalists dedicated to quality news, correcting misinformation, and ensuring public safety—even under intense pressure.
• Multimedia Boost: How the station used social media, push alerts, and digital platforms to amplify critical news when every second counts.
• Navigating Decentralized Communication: Insights into the challenges of California's decentralized government and its impact on emergency response and information dissemination.

Whether you're a news enthusiast or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes during a crisis, Fire on the Air offers a compelling look at the indispensable role of radio news in our society.

Tune in now to explore how local media keeps our communities safe and informed.