Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, which has the state of Georgia and the city of Atlanta under a state of emergency.
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Atlanta is home to a wide range of companies, from tech startups to global corporations, making it a hub for job seekers across many industries. That means it has plenty of good jobs.
The best Atlanta companies to work for also have a lot going for them, including diverse employs and executives that stress a nice work-life balance.
Here are some of the best companies with a presence in Atlanta that have been recognized for their positive work environments and opportunities. We’ve also included how each company rates respectively based on employee reviews.
What Are The Top Employers In Atlanta?
The top employers in Atlanta, ranked by number of employees are:
Rank Company Employees 1 The Home Depot 500,001 2 UPS 481,000 3 DHL 400,000 4 Delta Air Lines 86,564 With the city’s growing tech scene, top tech companies are also relocating here.
What Are Atlanta’s Best Companies To Work For?
When it comes to hybrid and remote jobs, these companies have several positions as well, which makes them great companies to work for.
The Coca-Cola Company
global beverage company headquartered in Atlanta, known for its iconic brand and diverse range of products.
It’s pretty difficult to get a job at Coca-Cola, as the recruiters oftentimes look to promote within and have to sort through thousands of applications sometimes to fill a single position.
According to GlassDoor, Coke employees rate the company 4.1 out of 5 stars based on 7,957 anonymous reviews.
Amazon
The world’s largest online retailer has invested heavily in metro Atlanta. From creating tech jobs to fulfillment centers for full- and part-time workers, Amazon continues to pump money into the Georgia economy with huge expansion plans in the works.
Check out Amazon jobs in Atlanta.
Delta Air Lines
One of the world’s largest airlines, with its headquarters and major hub in Atlanta. Delta is often recognized for its employee-friendly policies and benefits.
After enduring layoffs in 2020 due to the pandemic, the carrier has since grown in number. Read how to get a job at Delta.
Chick-fil-A
A popular fast-food restaurant chain based in Atlanta, known for its customer service and positive company culture. Employees regularly rave about working for the eatery that began in Hapeville, Georgia and has grown into a major fast-food empire with delicious menu items, some of them secret.
Home Depot
A leading home improvement retailer with its headquarters in Atlanta. Home Depot is known for providing opportunities for career growth and development.
Don’t think Home Depot jobs are relegated to wearing an orange apron in a store. Its corporate headquarters in Smyrna, Georgia, regularly lists high-paying jobs on the company’s website.
Read how to get a job at Home Depot.
Southern Company
An electric utility company based in Atlanta, known for its commitment to renewable energy and community engagement.
According to GlassDoor, the Southern Company has an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5, based on over 997 reviews left anonymously by employees.
UPS
A global package delivery and logistics company with a significant presence in Atlanta, offering various career opportunities.
What Do UPS Drivers Get Paid?
UPS says that On average, full-time package delivery drivers earn $95,000 per year in pay, plus an additional $50,000 in health, welfare and pension contributions, for a total compensation of about $145,000.
Cox Enterprises
A diversified company with interests in telecommunications, media, automotive services, and more. Cox is known for its employee-focused culture and community involvement.
Cox Enterprises has an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5, based on over 449 reviews left anonymously on GlassDoor.
Here are some Atlanta companies that fall under the Cox Enterprises umbrella:
- Atlanta Journal-Constitution
- Autotrader
- Manhiem
- WSB-TV
NCR Corp.
A technology company headquartered in Atlanta, specializing in providing solutions for the financial, retail, and hospitality industries.
On GlassDoor, NCR has an overall rating of 3.6 out of 5, based on over 7,163 reviews left anonymously by employees.
Equifax
A consumer credit reporting agency with its headquarters in Atlanta, offering career opportunities in data analytics and information technology.
Equifax has an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5, based on over 2,692 reviews left anonymously by employees on GlassDoor.com.
Truist
A regional bank with a significant presence in Atlanta, providing financial services and career opportunities in the banking industry.
On GlassDoor, Truist has an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5, based on over 2,046 reviews left anonymously by employees.
Final Word
In the Southeast, Atlanta boasts a lot of things to do and a solid economy.
Before applying for a job with any Atlanta company on this list, you should make sure you have the specific skills, interests, and career goals that align with the jobs available.
- Reach out to current employees on LinkedIn. Here’s how to find work on LinkedIn.
- Optimize your resume.
- Put in multiple job applications.
Conducting research, considering company reviews, and exploring job postings can help you identify companies that align with your needs and preferences.
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Yes, today is Columbus Day, or Indigenous Peoples Day, as it is also called. In Atlanta, there are quite a few things to do today.
While Columbus Day commemorates Christopher Columbus’s landing in the Americas on October 12, 1492, it also is a time to explore the community, its origins and significance.
Cool Things To Do On Columbus Day in Atlanta
Atlanta Botanical Garden
Known as that fancy schmancy place where cool people have weddings and dinner parties, Atlanta Botanical Gardens is one of the most beautiful venues in Atlanta. Everywhere you look, there’s lush greenery and blooms. Spread out across 30 acres in Piedmont Park, Atlanta Botanical Garden has special events on the regular and is a great place to catch some fresh air and admire nature’s beauty.
The garden will be open from 9 AM to 4 PM. It’s a great place to enjoy beautiful flora and current exhibitions.
Neon Brush Sip and Paint
Neon Brush is a painting workshop in a unique retro-futuristic atmosphere. Immerse yourself in a fluorescent neon-lit setting to create your own work of art. Get tickets.
Run Through A Corn Maze
Take the family or friends just outside Atlanta to a corn maze for some awesome outdoors fun. Here are some of the best corn mazes near Atlanta.
Fernbank Museum of Natural History
Photo credit: Youtube.com If you or a family member is a science geek, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History in Druid Hills has it all: dinosaurs, skeletal models and a comprehensive exhibit spread our over a three-story, sky-lit great hall. Talk about fun things to do: Every third Friday, there’s a dance party you don’t want to miss. 767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307.
Georgia Aquarium
Photo credit: Youtube.com Come to downtown Atlanta to see more than 120,000 animals of the sea. The Georgia Aquarium is one of the world’s largest aquariums, with tons of seasonal and permanent exhibits, interactive galleries & fun activities for kids and adults alike. 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313.
Food and Drink
Check out local restaurants for Columbus Day specials or fall-themed menus.
Here are some Atlanta restaurants with food specials today. We’ll go through the week to see what food we can get for cheap and where. Let’s start with the Monday food specials.
El Super Pan
455 Legends Pl #862, Atlanta, GA 30339 | (404) 521-6500
At The Battery Atlanta, El Super Pan has a Monday deal you don’t want to miss: $6 margaritas every Monday starting at 5 p.m.
Happy Hour At The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill
At The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill in Atlanta, you can catch Happy Hour every Monday-Friday from 4-6 p.m., which includes:
- East Coast oysters on the half shell for $12.97 a dozen
- $4 shrimp tacos
- $10 peel-and-eat shrimp
- A rotating boat drink for $5
- $18 Bud Light/Michelob Ultra buckets
- $20 Corona buckets
- $25 High Noon buckets
Every Monday Get 99-Cent Sangria In Atlanta
If you want to kickstart your workweek the right way, check out Loca Luna, which offers 99-cent sangrias from 5-10 p.m. every Monday. trust us, you’re going to get hungry, that’s why they have tapas half-priced as well.
550-C Amsterdam Ave NE, Atlanta. 404-875-4494. -
One great foodie event is the Atlanta Mimosa Festival, which takes place the third weekend in October in Georgia’s biggest city.
The Mimosa Festival is one of Atlanta’s best festivals.
Just to be clear, the mimosa festival will also have wine, beer, mixed drinks, live music, and more.
If you’re a fan of mimosas, you don’t want to miss this event, which is slated for Oct. 19 in Midtown Atlanta’s Atlantic Station. This is an age 21+ event.
Atlanta Mimosa Festival: Everything You Need To know
Attendees can expect all types of mimosas such as:
Orange, Orange Mango, Orange Pineapple, to name a few, as well as bellinis, wine, beer, Brunch Punch, Vodka & Bourbon Mules and Bloody Marys and more.
When Is The Atlanta Mimosa Festival?
Atlanta Mimosa Festival will be Saturday, October 19, 2024 at Historic 4th Ward Skate Park.
- Session 1: 12pm-4pm
- Session 2: 6pm-10pm
Get tickets here
The festival will also have Live Music to keep you entertained.
This event will feature our favorite drink, the Mimosa. We’ll have several different flavors to choose from, Orange, Orange Mango, Orange Pineapple, to name a few, as well as bellinis, wine, beer, Brunch Punch, and Bloody Marys. We’ll have Live Music and DJ Qtip to keep you entertained.
Where Is The Mimosa Festival Taking Place?
The Mimosa Festival is happening at Atlantic Station’s Pinnacle Lot, 221 20th St, Atlanta, GA 30363. Here’s a map to help you find it.
What Do You Have Planned in Atlanta For the Weekend?
If you’ve been searching for a great dining experience outdoors, Atlanta’s new restaurants are a great place to start. Wonder where the best outdoor dining is in the city?
Let’s look at some of the best places to eat outdoors in Atlanta, Georgia.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
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Hurricane Milton is bearing down on Florida’s west coast as tens of thousands of people flee north into Georgia. If you’re one of those evacuees, it’s no doubt you need resources.
This article will show you some free resources you can take advantage of in Georgia in light of the storm.
For Floridians evacuating Hurricane Milton, there are several free resources available in Georgia:
Shelters
Multiple Georgia state parks are offering shelter options for families fleeing the storm. These parks are specifically prepared to accommodate evacuees.
Here are some shelters available in South Georgia for Hurricane Milton evacuees:
1. Georgia State Parks: Various state parks in Georgia are open to evacuees. It’s recommended to check the availability and specific locations through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
2. Atlanta Motor Speedway: This facility has opened its grounds for evacuees, providing space for camping and sheltering.
3. Local Emergency Shelters: Various emergency shelters operated by the city and county authorities are prepared to assist evacuees. It’s recommended to check with the Atlanta City Government’s official website or contact local emergency management for specific locations.
U-Haul Free Storage
U-Haul has extended an offer for free self-storage, which can be particularly helpful for those needing to store belongings temporarily while evacuating.
Local Assistance
Check local county and city websites in Georgia for additional resources such as food assistance, safe places to stay, or any community programs designed to help evacuees.
FEMA Resources
Visit FEMA.gov for information on disaster assistance and resources available to those affected by the hurricane. For up-to-date information and resources, it’s essential to stay connected to local news outlets and official government announcements.
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One of the heroes of the Falcons overtime win against the Tampa Bay Bucs was backup receiver KhaDarel Hodge. You probably don’t know much about him.
After a thrilling 36-30 overtime win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday Night Football, fans know exactly who he was. His 45-yard catch-and-run touchdown in overtime was the difference.
KhaDarel honed his football skills in small town Texas. After high school, he attended Hinds Community College, where he transitioned to wide receiver, for one season before joining the squad at a small HBCU in Texas, Prairie View A&M University.
He then went undrafted in 2018. He caught on with the practice squads for the Cleveland Browns and Detroit Lions before signing with the Falcons in 2022.
KhaDarel Hodge finally got his star turn Thursday night against the Bucs. Here’s what he had to say after the game.
Here are some key details about him:
- Born: January 3, 1995, in D’Lo, Mississippi
- Height: 6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
- Weight: 208 lbs
- College: Prairie View A&M University
- NFL Career: He went undrafted in 2018 and was initially signed by the Los Angeles Rams.
Hodge has proved to be a pretty interesting guy away from the field. He’s active on Instagram, where he shares his humorous side.
Throughout his career, he has also played for the Cleveland Browns before joining the Falcons in 2022. As of now, Hodge has appeared in multiple games and has made significant contributions to his teams over the years.
Final Word
The Falcons schedule is shaping up favorably. Can they make the playoffs? Stay tuned.
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The Atlanta Falcons’ thrilling overtime win at home against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers shed some light on some of the good things the team is doing lately. Let’s get into it.
1. Kirk Cousins Is the Come-Behind King
Cousins was masterful in overtime with the big-time throw to lead the team to victory and throwing for 509 yards, but he’s done it all season. Against the Philadelphia Eagles, down by six with 1:39 left on the clock, the veteran quarterback engineered a 70-yard drive, finishing it off with a seven-yard touchdown pass to Drake London with 34 seconds left in the game.
he drove the Falcons done the field in the closing seconds and did the same against Kansas City, although it didn’t end the same.
His last-minute wins are why the Falcons are 3-2 at this juncture, rather than 0-5. Against the Bucs, Cousins continually found Drake London, Kyle Pitts and Darnell Mooney.
2. Kyle Pitts Is Still Alive
Left for dead over the past three games, tight end Kyle Pitts came alive with seven catches for 88 yards.
Going into the game, the talk was that Pitts and Cousins just couldn’t get on the same page and that the Falcons most likely would do well to trade him. But judging from Pitts’ performance against the Bucs, he is very much still a big part of the offense and just needs to continue to find his groove.
Cousins found him repeatedly over the middle and on the ends when the Bucs tried to blitz from the cornerback position. Can Pitts put together back-to-back good games? That remains to be seen.
3. The Swag Surf Advantage Is Real
DJ Big Tigger knows when to press the homecrowd into action. With the game on the line, the Falcons were energized when the crowd Swag Surfed once again. This time, even Kirk Cousins got in on the action.
4. The Falcons-Bucs Rivalry Is Real
The rivalry between the Atlanta Falcons and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is one of the notable divisional matchups in the NFL, characterized by close contests, memorable moments, and a shared history within the NFC South division. Here’s a deep dive into their football history:
Origins of the Rivalry
- Formation of the Buccaneers: The rivalry began when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers joined the NFL in 1976. At that time, they played in the NFC Central division while the Atlanta Falcons were part of the NFC West.
- Early Meetings: The first meeting between the two teams took place on December 18, 1977, with the Falcons defeating the Buccaneers 17-0. The two teams didn’t become regular opponents until 2002 when they were both placed in the NFC South during the NFL’s realignment.
The NFC South Era (2002-Present)
The rivalry truly took shape in 2002 when the Falcons and Buccaneers were both placed in the newly created NFC South division, ensuring that they would play each other twice a season.
Key Aspects of the Rivalry:
- Parity and Close Contests: The games between the Falcons and Buccaneers have often been competitive, with the two teams trading victories and both franchises going through cycles of success and struggle.
- Divisional Stakes: As divisional rivals, these games frequently carry playoff implications, particularly during seasons where both teams are in contention for the NFC South title or a Wild Card spot.
- Fan Engagement: The proximity between Atlanta and Tampa Bay (roughly 450 miles) means that fans of both teams often travel to each other’s cities, adding intensity to the matchups.
Notable Moments
- 2002 Season: After realignment, the Buccaneers were dominant during their first season in the NFC South, ultimately winning the Super Bowl in 2002. The Falcons, led by young quarterback Michael Vick, would provide tough competition for Tampa Bay over the years but didn’t have the same level of success early on.
- 2004-2006: The rivalry heated up as both teams were competitive in the mid-2000s. Vick’s electrifying play and Tampa Bay’s strong defense led to some memorable showdowns.
- 2008-2012: During this period, both teams experienced success. The Buccaneers were in a rebuilding phase, but the Falcons, led by quarterback Matt Ryan and head coach Mike Smith, began to dominate the division. From 2008 to 2012, the Falcons won six out of the 10 matchups against the Bucs, including a memorable 2012 overtime win.
- 2016: The Falcons had a standout season, making a Super Bowl appearance. That year, they swept the Buccaneers in their regular-season matchups, highlighting their superiority in the division.
- 2020-2021: With Tom Brady joining the Buccaneers in 2020, Tampa Bay became a dominant force, winning the Super Bowl in Brady’s first season. They swept the Falcons in both 2020 and 2021, signaling a resurgence in Tampa Bay’s favor after a long period where Atlanta had been more successful.
Final Word
The Falcons had themselves a night by first, forcing overtime and then winning the game. Way to go, Falcons.
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Jamie Foxx is doing a couple of one-man shows this week in Atlanta. The actor and singer is no stranger to Atlanta, having filmed various movies in the metro area through the years. This time, he comes back as headliner.
The performances, which were originally titled “One More Chance: An Evening with Jamie Foxx,” are now being called “What Had Happened Was.” The show dates are Thursday October 3, 4, and 5 at t the Coca-Cola Stage at Atlanta’s Alliance Theater.
“Join us for an unforgettable one-man show as I share my journey through a serious health scare, filled with humor, heart, and inspiration,” Foxx shared on Instagram. “Experience a side of me you’ve never seen before in this intimate performance, where I’ll open up about my struggles, triumphs, and everything in between.”
He also wrote: “I have some people to thank in a big way. If you’re in Atlanta around that time and you’ve been rocking with me this whole time let me thank you personally.”
Final Word
Live performances have sort of become a nighttime occurrence here in Atlanta, with several venues hosting acts every weekend.
Georgia’s biggest city is also home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Atlanta Opera, offering world-class performances for music lovers. Check out who’s performing in Atlanta. The city has a lot of cool things to do and places to eat, including some of the top soul food joints and remarkable Thai food spots.
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The Atlanta Braves have been eliminated from the Major League Baseball postseason after Wednesday’s loss to the San Diego Padres.
Braves Manager Brian Snitka said despite the sour ending, he was proud of his squad.
“Nobody’s ever ‘woe is me’ or griping about anything, this or that, they just keep playing,” he said in postgame comments. “They kept working. Their energy never waned. Their attitude never waned. I’m about as proud of the team as I’ve ever been.”
The Braves began the season with pennant aspirations, but key injuries proved to be too much to overcome.
In 2024, the Braves have faced several key injuries that have impacted their season:
Braves’ 2024 Season Marred by Key Injuries
- Ronald Acuña Jr.: Placed on the 60-day injured list due to a torn left ACL, he is expected to miss the remainder of the season.
- Spencer Strider: The ace right-hander required season-ending elbow surgery after participating in only two games this season.
- Austin Riley: The slugging third baseman suffered a fractured right hand in mid-August and was ruled out for the playoffs.
- A.J. Minter: The key reliever is dealing with left hip inflammation.
- Huascar Ynoa: He is experiencing right shoulder discomfort, which has affected his availability. These injuries have contributed to a challenging season for the Braves, especially as they approached the playoffs.
Final Word
The 2024 season for the Atlanta Braves was marked by significant challenges but also notable achievements:
The team began the season with strong performances, maintaining a competitive position in the National League East.
Offensive Production Was an Issue
Despite the setbacks, players like Ozzie Albies and Austin Riley continued to produce, helping the Braves remain competitive in many games. With the injuries to key pitchers, the Braves struggled to maintain consistency on the mound. Their bullpen faced heightened pressure as younger pitchers stepped up to fill roles.
Final Word
The Braves managed to secure a playoff spot, demonstrating resilience throughout the season. They finished with a solid record, which allowed them to compete in the postseason, but they couldn’t win a game once October began.
Overall, while the season was hampered by injuries, the Braves still showed promise and competitiveness, setting the stage for a hopeful bounce-back in the following season.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
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The Mall West End, a longstanding retail property slated for transformation into a mixed-use district, has officially been sold for redevelopment.
In a Tuesday announcement, Atlanta officials confirmed the acquisition. Atlanta Urban Development Corp., in partnership with BRP Cos. and The Prusik Group, plans to replace the mall with affordable housing, retail shops, restaurants, and office spaces.
“”This is a long-awaited new era for the West End. This is not just a redevelopment of the Mall West End—this is fulfilling a commitment to a community,” Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said in a press release. “Our Administration is dedicated to creating affordable housing and vibrant business spaces that respect and preserve the rich legacy of this historic neighborhood. Together with our partners, we will work to ensure the heart and soul of the West End continues to thrive under our stewardship.”
What Is the Redevelopment Plan for West End Mall?
The redevelopment of the Mall West End will be a multi-year process, with the project team actively engaging residents, legacy business owners, and other stakeholders to gather input and feedback. Construction on the Mall West End redevelopment is expected to begin in 2025, with phase one completion slated for 2026.
The West End redevelopment plan includes:
- Approximately 125,000 square feet of retail, including a grocery store, fitness center, food & beverage, and local boutiques
- Approximately 900 mixed-income rental units, with 70% workforce housing, 20% affordable at 50% AMI, and 10% at 80% AMI
- A minimum of 10,00 square foot of affordable commercial space allocated for qualified small, local businesses
- Student-targeted housing
- A planned 150-key hotel
- A planned 12,000 square feet of medical office space
- Extensive community amenities such as activated street scape, fitness center, resident lounges, and bike parking
Funding includes a $5 million acquisition loan from Atlanta Urban Development, $5 million from Atlanta Beltline, Inc. (led by President and CEO Clyde Higgs) and $19 million in acquisition financing provided by Merchants Capital.
In July 2024, the City of Atlanta detailed plans to do something big with West End mall, a staple of the West End section of the city.
Approximately 120,000 square feet of retail, including a grocery store, fitness center, food & beverage, and local boutiques, 893 mixed-income rental units, with 70% workforce housing, 20% affordable at 50% AMI, and 10% at 80% AMI for 271 total affordable housing units, 152 beds of student-targeted housing, a 150-key hotel, 12,000 square feet of medical office space, and extensive community amenities such as a public green space, fitness center, pool, resident lounge, and bike parking.
“With affordable housing at the forefront, the West Enddevelopment represents a unique opportunity to revitalize and reinvest in the West Endcommunity, creating a more vibrant, connected, and equitable neighborhood,” said John Majors, CEO of the Atlanta Urban Development Corporation. “We are proud to partner with BRP Companies on this project with the support of Mayor Dickens, and deliver this well-deserved, transformative project. AUD exists to bring innovative, unique collaborations to market that yield substantially more affordable housing than would otherwise be possible.”
The Mall West End, surrounded by expansive surface parking, is located near MARTA’s West End station, less than a mile from the Lee + White retail and entertainment district along the Beltline’s Westside Trail, and just steps away from the Atlanta University Center.
The $450 million redevelopment will be backed by a $5 million acquisition loan from the AUDC, $5 million from Atlanta Beltline Inc., and $19 million in acquisition financing from Merchants Capital, according to the release.
Final Word
Yes, Atlanta is changing. And it’s not just the buildings. If you want to explore Georgia’s largest city, do it on your terms and check out the fun, cool and new things happening in Atlanta this weekend and even on the weekday. You can start downtown, and get it crackin’ in Buckhead. Check out the newest Atlanta restaurants, beautiful parks and unexplored spots you’ve only heard about. AtlantaFi your experience!
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Georgia public safety officials warned metro Atlanta residents that Thursday morning they may literally get wind of the chlorine plume coming from Conyers, three days after a chemical fire creating a public safety threat.
The chemical plume, originating from the chlorine leak at the BioLab facility in Conyers, is being pushed westward toward metro Atlanta by wind conditions, officials said Wednesday, Oct. 2.
On Thursday, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens addressed the fumes over Atlanta saying that the city was working with state health officials and that the chlorine smells were below unsafe levels.
Day 5: Chlorine Plume Over Metro Atlanta
A statement from the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) suggest that residents in inner metro Atlanta may notice the smell of chlorine. Chlorine readings have exceeded “action levels” in certain areas, and officials are advising caution. While there was a shelter-in-place order affecting around 90,000 residents, it has been lifted for most areas. However, residents are still being advised to stay alert and take precautions as the situation develops.
“The current weather models show the winds will begin to shift from the east to the west after sunset Wednesday,” GEMA said. “Smoke is predicted to settle towards the ground as it moves toward Atlanta. There is a high likelihood that people across Metro Atlanta will wake up on Thursday morning seeing haze and smelling chlorine.”
The agency went on to say that as the air settles each evening, smoke tends to settle toward the Earth. “As the air lifts back up in the afternoon and evening, the smell and haze should dissipate. Chlorine has a very low odor threshold, meaning you can smell it before it reaches a harmful level,” the agency said.
In a Tuesday news conference, Rockdale Chairman Oz Nesbit said that an earlier alert that lifted a shelter in place for the county was sent before the wind patterns shifted and is no longer in effect. “We can’t control the weather,” he said.
“Let me make this very clear. You will continue to see the plume. The plume is part of the mitigating process,” he added.
How To Protect Yourself From Bad Air
Protecting yourself from chlorine gas exposure requires prompt action, as chlorine gas is highly toxic when inhaled. Here are the steps to take if you believe chlorine gas is present in the air:
1. Recognize Chlorine Gas Exposure Symptoms
- Early Symptoms: These may include coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, irritation of the eyes and throat, and a strong chlorine odor (similar to bleach).
- Severe Symptoms: If exposure continues, it can cause severe respiratory distress, burning of the lungs, nausea, vomiting, fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema), and even death.
2. Evacuate the Area Immediately
- Move Upwind and Uphill: Chlorine gas is heavier than air, so it will settle in low-lying areas. Quickly move to higher ground and head in the direction opposite to where the wind is blowing from to minimize further exposure.
- Distance Matters: Try to get as far away from the source as possible. Even moving a mile away may significantly reduce your exposure.
3. Use a Respiratory Protection Device
If you have access to any of the following protective gear, use it:
- Gas Mask with Chemical Cartridge (Specifically for Chlorine): The most effective protection comes from wearing a full-face gas mask with cartridges specifically designed to filter out chlorine gas.
- Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA): This is used by first responders and industrial workers in hazardous environments. SCBAs supply clean air from a tank, protecting you from inhaling toxic gas.
If specialized equipment isn’t available:
- Improvised Protection: Although far less effective, you can cover your nose and mouth with a damp cloth to reduce inhalation of chlorine gas. Wet the cloth with water, a weak acidic solution like vinegar, or even a baking soda solution (which can neutralize some of the chlorine). However, this is only a temporary measure and will not provide full protection.
4. Shelter Indoors
If evacuation is not possible, follow these steps to reduce exposure:
- Seal the Building: Go indoors and close all windows, doors, and vents. Shut down air conditioning and heating systems to prevent gas from entering the building.
- Shelter in an Interior Room: Choose a room with few windows and doors, preferably on a higher floor. Use plastic sheeting and duct tape to seal any gaps around doors, windows, and vents to prevent gas from leaking inside.
- Use a HEPA Air Filter: If available, turn on a portable air purifier with a HEPA filter. While this won’t fully filter out chlorine gas, it can help reduce airborne particulates and contaminants in the air.
5. Decontaminate If Exposed
If you have come into contact with chlorine gas:
- Remove Contaminated Clothing: Take off any clothing that may have been exposed to the gas as soon as possible. Cut off the clothing rather than pulling it over your head to avoid further exposure.
- Rinse Exposed Skin and Eyes: Immediately rinse your skin and eyes with large amounts of water to flush out any chlorine. Use cool or lukewarm water, not hot.
- Seek Fresh Air: Continue to breathe fresh air as much as possible to help clear your lungs of the gas.
6. Seek Medical Attention
- Call Emergency Services: If you or someone else is experiencing significant symptoms of chlorine gas exposure, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, chest pain, or dizziness require urgent care.
- Long-Term Effects: Even after the exposure has ended, chlorine gas can cause lasting damage to the lungs and airways. Medical professionals may provide oxygen, bronchodilators, or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and help you recover.
Final Word
Being a mile away from a chlorine leak still poses a potential risk depending on wind conditions and the severity of the leak. Shelter-in-place is often the best immediate action, but staying informed and following guidance from local authorities is crucial.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
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- Cool Places and Things for Couples To Do In Atlanta
- Awesome Atlanta Food Specials You Don’t Know About