With Twitter limiting who and how many Tweets can be used, based on whether and what type of account users have, first responders are beginning to investigate alternatives through which they can communicate with the public, leading to potential concerns for public safety. In particular, the B.C. Ministry of Transportation found itself prevented from communicating with the public via Twitter during wildfire season, as it had exceeded the new cap on tweets, noting “DriveBC on Twitter and its sub-accounts have exceeded the temporarily imposed post rate limit.”
Specifically, many are examining the recently launched competitor Threads, with some already having set up accounts and developing communication strategies. In particular, Edmonton Police Services spokesperson Carlin Maran said to The Canadian Press that the organization “has a Threads account and is currently developing a strategy for its ongoing use,” but will also continue to maintain their Twitter account. First responders in Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal have also all indicated they are evaluating the potential use of Threads.
In comparison, the RCMP has indicated they are not yet planning on adopting Threads for communication with the public. Says RCMP spokesperson Marie-Eve Breton to The Canadian Press, “As the footprint and reach of traditional media has been reduced, social media has been a very useful tool in that regard. However, as these tools evolve and rules governing their use change our communications strategies will need to change with them.”
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