During an unusual occurrence, such as threatening weather conditions, the method of communication between the Georgia Ports Authority and the media will be via news releases and real-time updates on the home page of www.gaports.com.

When the situation warrants, the Georgia Ports Authority coordinates with various external government agencies and local authorities. As soon as complete details are available, it is the GPA Corporate Communications Team’s goal to keep the media informed.

It is the responsibility of the media to confirm that the name of your organization, primary contact, physical address, email address, telephone number and fax number are on file with the GPA Corporate Communications office in order that your organization may be advised of newsworthy events in an efficient manner. Submit your information to [email protected].

During a natural occurrence or any disrupting activity, port operational status will be conveyed via the GPA website (www.gaports.com) and news releases.

Additional statements pertaining to port operations during a natural occurrence may be obtained by contacting the GPA Corporate Communications office at 800.342.8012 or 912.964.3855. Under extreme circumstances, and to assure the safety of our staff, responsibility for information disbursement may be shifted to another GPA port and/or office location. Details on the appropriate contact information will be posted on GPA’s website.

Please note that during the closing of a Federal Navigation Channel, landside operations may continue as long as the safety of personnel and operations are not endangered. Please refer to the U.S. Coast Guard for additional information surrounding harbor closing and opening status.

Contact: U.S. Coast Guard / Marine Safety Office
912.652.4353 (ext. 205)

Notification for employees either to report or not to report to work during the crisis will be issued to all television and radio stations in the area, as well as at www.gaports.com.

Requests for information concerning emergency situations and access to port facilities during emergencies should be arranged through the GPA Corporate Communications Team.

Media representatives responding to an emergency on port property are subject to proper access controls.

Members of the press responding to an emergency are subject to standard security procedures and should call ahead to coordinate their arrival with the Corporate Communications office. Be prepared to follow instructions related to the MARSEC Level and access directions, as well as additional restrictions.

If possible, authorized members of the press will be escorted to a safe, secure area as close to the emergency as possible without jeopardizing life, limb or property and without interfering with emergency and ongoing operations. Unless otherwise advised by the Corporate Communications Team, no photography, nor filming, is allowed.

GPA Port Police and other GPA emergency control officials have the authority to declare an area unsafe, or part of a crime scene, and consequently deny access to nonessential personnel. Unauthorized entry to any GPA facility via land or water is unlawful and subject to prosecution.

The Georgia Ports Authority corporate logo, photos and video footage are available for use by the media. Contact Corporate Communications at [email protected] or 912.964.3855 to request specific items.

Please include your name, title, company, mailing address, telephone number and email address in written requests. Also include the nature of your request and specific images/footage requested along with the desired format. General usage guidelines will accompany each request. GPA retains all rights to material.

For all media requests, including executive staff interviews, contact Corporate Communications at 912.964.3855.