Super Bowl LVI: Coordinating the Joint Information Center

Abstract

Objectives: The Super Bowl is one of the biggest annual sporting events that creates unique challenges for public health preparedness. The objective of this brief is to discuss the successes and challenges of the Joint Information Center during Super Bowl LVI. Methods: This study analyzed the JIC within four realms: pre-activation planning, public safety and alert messaging, communication, and credentialing and access. Results: Pre-activation planning was not attended by all agencies, which made it difficult for effective communication during the activation period. Innovative platforms and social media themes were successfully deployed to enhance inter-operational communications and public safety messaging. Lastly, delayed credentialing and access to the Super Bowl Stadium decreased the ability to have context to safety preparedness. Conclusion: This study recommends that many of the Joint Information Center’s successes should be translated to future mass-gathering events. Additionally, we urge that all agencies participate during pre-activation and activation periods to enhance safety operations and communications moving forward.