Anniston Star
September 7, 2003

In the know: EMA wants parents to be informed on schools' plan

By Charlotte Tubbs
Star Staff Writer
09-07-2003

Sisters Hannah Key, a third grader, and Mackenzie Key, a kindergartner, lead the way as school is dismissed at Wellborn Elementary. Photo: Kevin Qualls/The Anniston Star

The Calhoun County Emergency Management Agency wants parents to know what schools will do in the case of a chemical emergency.

In the next few weeks, school systems will send home a letter from the EMA, explaining the emergency procedures in place at schools, including tone alert radios, overpressurized gymnasiums and other facilities and direct communication via two-way radios with the county’s Emergency Operations Center.

“We’re hoping that it will make the parents aware that all of the schools have a plan in place in the event of a chemical weapons accident, just like they do for any other emergency,” said David Ford, EMA spokesman.

The letter stresses that parents should not come to pick up their children or call the schools.

“The reason is that your presence at the school — and even your concerned phone call — could divert school staff away from student safety and possibly harm your child and others in the school,” according to the letter.

Parents also could put themselves at risk by trying to pick up their children, rather than taking shelter.

“That’s a hard thing to do,” Ford said. “Some parents will want to go to the school and get their children if the community is faced with a hazard.”

The letter urges parents to listen to designated radio stations or television stations to stay updated during an emergency.

Ford said he hopes the letter reinforces emergency plans with parents and reassures them.

Mike Fincher, director of safety and security for Calhoun County schools, said parents have come to schools during tornado warnings in the past to get their children.

“We suggest to parents that they stay here with us,” Fincher said. “It’s safer at the school than in their car. Some refuse, but that’s their choice.”

Much like other school systems, Oxford schools have a color-coded booklet that details the school’s emergency plans in case of a tornado, fire, intruder or chemical accident, said Oxford Superintendent Louis Higgins.

Anniston Schools Superintendent Sammy Felton said he hopes the letter will motivate parents to seek answers to their questions.

“If you have questions, call someone to get valid information,” Felton said. “Don’t ask a neighbor.”

The letter also encourages families to discuss their own plans in case of an emergency, suggesting that parents should quiz their children every six months on how to protect themselves.

For more information, contact the Calhoun County EMA at 435-0540.