Which category is NOT one of the three basic categories of public information?

The correct choice identifies technical reports as not being one of the three basic categories of public information. In the context of public information, the focus is primarily on how to communicate effectively during incidents to inform and protect the public. The three basic categories typically include action messages, which provide direct guidance or instructions to the public about what they should do; advisories and warnings, which alert individuals to potential risks or emergencies; and narrative information, which offers background or context surrounding an incident.

Technical reports, while they can contain valuable data and analyses, are usually more specialized documents aimed at specific audiences rather than being designed for broad public communication. They often involve detailed abstract data and technical jargon that might not be easily understood by the general public. Therefore, they do not serve the primary intent of conveying immediate, actionable information or warnings to the community during an emergency situation. This distinction is vital for incident commanders who must prioritize clear and accessible communication in their public information strategies.