Cleburne County
What is the Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program (CSEPP)?
CSEPP is a coordinated and cooperative effort among Federal, State and Local agencies, the private sector and volunteers that should contribute to saving lives and protecting property in the event of a chemical accident or incident at Anniston Army Depot.
In 1986, Congress mandated chemical munitions stored at Anniston Army Depot (and seven other sites) be destroyed. Congress also mandated maximum protection for the public, the environment and workers involved in destroying the chemical munitions. Federal funding is being provided to communities surrounding the storage sites to upgrade emergency capabilities.
The Depot uses extensive safety and security precautions while storing, inspecting, monitoring and handling these munitions. The Depot's safety record regarding these munitions is exemplary. However, Cleburne County must be prepared to respond to and recover from any potential accident/incident involving these chemical munitions.
Cleburne County's Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) identifies and pans for emergencies that could occur at Anniston Army Depot. Some federal resourcing has been provided to the county for items that contribute to enhancing maximum protection for the public. Specific examples include an improved Emergency Operations Center; an improved automation system; increased training; and improved communications equipment for responders and schools. These emergency response system improvements have been made through CSEPP but are used for any emergency that impacts the county.