Emerging information resources

National Genter for Accessible Media. The Access to Emergency /Uerts project unites emergency alert providers, local information resources, telecommunications industry and public broadcasting representatives, and consumers in a collaborative effort to research and disseminate replicable approaches to make emergency warnings accessible. The Web site provides information on developments and resources. Visit http //ncam. wgbh.org/alerts... 

There are information resources on hazardous substances, such as the Chemical Transportation Emergency Center, CHEMTREC. It offers a public service hotUne for fire fighters, law enforcement, and other emergency responders, and for manufacturers and shippers to obtain information and assistance for emergency incidents involving chemicals and hazardous materials. Callers can obtain information on nearly three million material safety data sheets (MSDSs). 

Provides information about all RCRA regulations and programs including the Resource Conseiwation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA, or Superfund) and Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA)/Superfund Amendments Reauthorization Act (SARA) Title III. Operates weekdays from 9 00 a.m. to 6 00 p.m., EST, excluding Federal holidays. Sendees are also available in Spanish. 

The print and broadcast media can be a major resource for communication, and one Job of the emergency coordinator is to prepare information for reporters. The emergency plan should include a procedure to pass along information to the media promptly and accurately. 

A Category 2 incident is one clearly recognizable from the outset as beyond the capability of the forces to hand. The emergency services should be informed immediately of the magnitude of the incident and the specific location. The resources sent in response, e.g. the number of fire appliances, ambulances, police, need to be predetermined by good pre-planning. 

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