Protective Actions

Shelter-in-place will be the first protective action that may directed for an affected area. However, if there is a continuing airborne hazard, or if levels of deposition make an area unsafe, evacuation may be directed.

If you are directed to evacuate from your home or while at work, follow these guidelines:

• Determine what Sector you are in (see ORR EPZ tab). The EAS message will direct you to a specific Reception Center.
• If you do not have transportation, call a neighbor or co-worker for assistance. DO NOT CALL 911.
• Keep your vehicle windows closed and turn off air systems to eliminate the possible intake of outside air into your vehicle.
• Tune your vehicle’s radio to one of the pre-designated EAS stations listed in the Warning tab.
• Secure your home or workplace. Before leaving home, tie a white cloth or towel on your front door to indicate to emergency officials that you have evacuated.
• If you are at home, gather items you will need for a short stay away from home, such as:

-       Medicine and all prescriptions

-       Personal health products

-       Special diet food and supplies

-       Food, water, and pet food

-       Blankets, pillows, and/or sleeping bag

-       Cash, checkbook, debit and credit cards, and important papers

-       Baby Items for children

-       Change of clothing

-       Cell phone and charger

For additional information on preparing for an emergency, go to TEMA’s website at https://www.tn.gov/tema/prepare.html

Every school in the potentially affected area has an emergency plan that will be implemented to ensure your children are kept safe. Affected schools will be notified of the ORR emergency by local officials. Your children will be sheltered in their school until it is safe to leave.

In the event of a school relocation, your children will be transported by school officials to a safe facility outside of the affected area.

[PARENTS: Please DO NOT pick up your children until you are told it is safe to do so]