[Page 770]A warning is a type of indication, notification, or bulletin that requires consideration as it conveys important information about an imminent threat. Response decisions can range from adapting to a new environment to a nonresponse.

A warning system consists of different elements arranged to transmit warning information with the ultimate goal of protection. Those elements may include scientific personnel, government officials, emergency management organizations, scientific and technological devices, the media, and the general public. For a warning system to be effective, it must be timely, accurate, reliable, and understood by those who interact with the system to channel information (if the system requires human interaction) and by the audience. The dissemination of accurate, succinct, timely, and reliable warning information that accounts for the needs of ...