Cities, like people, need periodic check-ups. Here are some "vital signs" to keep an eye on to ensure your city or county's health.

In this checklist from InFocus Report: Effective Crisis Communication, ICMA lists 16 questions every local government manager should ask in their crisis communication planning.

From the InFocus Report, Effective Crisis Communication, a crisis communications plan answers these basic yet critical questions.

Here are six perspectives to get you thinking.