Risk discourse in the linguistic landscape

Abstract

Signs in the linguistic landscape (LL) can be used to both inform the public and to regulate their actions – functions that are highly relevant when communicating about risk. This chapter discusses the characteristics of the risk discourse carried by the linguistic landscape, more specifically the safety information signage found onboard metro carriages in Stockholm and Helsinki. The analysis deals with both how such information is presented on the multimodal signs and what kinds of risks and responsibilities are depicted as part of this information. The results show that emplacement and the visual design, more specifically the application of colours, are noteworthy characteristics of risk discourse present in the LL. Few actual risks are spelled out in the signage and even if the readers can be given responsibility to act in the face of risks, this information can be worded in different ways. Considering interpersonal speech functions, both direct commands and more ambivalent, passive statements can be found, with some differences in practices between the two cities. Overall, the situated nature of the safety information signage points to the role of place semiotics in meaning making within risk discourse, thus highlighting the value of considering the LL in order to gain a better understanding of risk communication.