NBC13 News (Anniston)
June 25, 2003

Talladega Co. Officials To Buy Protective Kits For Residents; Officials Take Bids On Shelter-In-Place Kits, Air Cleaners

POSTED: 2:10 p.m. CDT June 25, 2003
ANNISTON, Ala. -- The Talladega County Commission is looking over bids on emergency protective equipment for residents living in response zones near the Anniston Army Depot.

Protective HoodsArmy operations at the Anniston chemical weapons incinerator could start as early as July 6 and residents want protection in the event of an accident.

"It's a concern to everyone," resident Joyce Josey said. "We should all be concerned. It's a dangerous thing."

Josey has lived in Talladega County for 70 years.

"I think they should get the protection out," she said. "Everyone should have some protection and know how to use it."

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has provided the county with $1.3 million in funding for shelter-in-place kits, which include a roll of plastic and duct tape.

The county has received two bids for the kits and protective room air cleaners for 7,600 Talladega County residents who live in the immediate response zones. EMA officials plan to make a recommendation to the commission this week.

"When they receive the equipment, they will be shown how to use the equipment and they will also receive an instructional video to show them how to use the shelter-in-place kits," EMA agent Nelson Bates said.

Once commissioners make a decision on a bid, emergency protective equipment could be available to residents within a month.