Anniston Star
September 18, 2003

Speak Out ... On Pink Zone dangers

By our readers
09-18-2003

While my family prefers to shop in Calhoun County, I regret we will now be spending our tax dollars in Etowah and Jefferson counties. Driving through and shopping in the Pink Zone aren’t acceptable risks.

With each business “on its own” during a chemical release, obviously patrons are also. Our family lives in Zone A-6 so we don’t have gas masks to bring to town. And evacuation routes: what roads does one follow from Zones A-1, B-2, C-1? It’s bewildering. We should learn from the coastal areas — hurricane evacuation routes are well marked.

Another problem not addressed: emergency procedures during football, baseball games, graduations, etc. — any outdoor event drawing large numbers of people. Although my daughter is in the marching band, she will remain (relatively) safe at home rather than march in the shadow of the incinerator.

The additions to the Oxford Mall are very attractive and our family has enjoyed the roomy seating and first-run films at the theater, but now we’ll be shopping at McRae’s instead of Dillards. Maybe we’ll just wait until movies come out on video.

What a shame. Sites employing neutralization aren’t facing such dilemmas.

Susan Hug
Jacksonville