FEMA Media Library
The characterization process continues with an evaluation of potential impacts to property and the environment. If impacts are identified, the next step is to determine which media are affected, which can include enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces such as HVAC systems and building materials, outdoor areas like agricultural crops and property, as well as various water bodies including distribution systems, ponds, and reservoirs. The process then assesses whether regulatory and stakeholder needs are addressed. If they are not, and if there are areas of unacceptable residual or environmental contamination, the chart indicates to proceed to step 500. If regulatory and stakeholder needs are addressed, and there is no contamination, no decontamination is necessary, allowing for re-entry and the resumption of operations as appropriate. If natural attenuation is not adequate to eliminate human health impacts, the flow chart suggests evaluating, reassessing, and implementing other public health and medical options, such as treatment and patient care, as well as other public risk-management communication options, potentially including the return to home or work. Lastly, if natural attenuation is adequate to address environmental concerns, the chart directs to step 400; if not, it directs to step 500.
This COVID-19 Education Resource Roadmap (Roadmap), as developed by FEMA, is to assist state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) leaders and stakeholders with navigating some of the challenges, as well as the resources, associated with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Specifically, the Roadmap describes how supplemental appropriated funds, in particular funding authorized under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, and certain ongoing annually funded federal programs, can be used to implement potential solutions.
Atlanta -- Sgt. Matthew Mattias, a combat medic assigned to to Fort Stewart, Ga., prepares a syringe with the COVID vaccine before administering to a patient in Atlanta’s community vaccination center at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
