Last week's directive from

the White House to stock up on duct tape and plastic sheeting left many

residents wondering how safe the metro area is and what should be done

in case of a biological or chemical attack.

One of the biggest concerns

could be Atlanta's Hartsfield International Airport, which lies just north

of Fayette County.

Security sources at Hartsfield

and the federal Transportation Security Administration remained tight-lipped

last week about possible evacuation plans, but maintain they are ready

for any possible nefarious plans.

"We can't tell you exactly

what we have in place, because we don't want to offer a blueprint for

people to try and get around the plans," said Hartsfield spokesperson

Yolanda Clark.

When the country's security

warning was changed to orange, the second highest level of alert, the

airport did increase security measures in several areas including:

Parking. The number of parking

spaces may be reduced and there may be increased random inspections of

vehicles in and around the airport facility.

Increased law enforcement

presence. The TSA, working with airport and local law enforcement officers,

increased the number of patrols of local law enforcement officers throughout

airport facility and increased patrols of airport perimeters.

Checkpoints at airports. TSA

screeners are always on a heightened state of alert, and continue to perform

at that level.

Checking airport IDs. The

TSA advised air carriers to review and ensure the validity of all personnel

identification badges for those who have access to the secure areas.