There are 4 Emergency Classification Levels (ECLs) for PVGS incidents established by the federal government.
Unusual Event
A minor problem has taken place. no release of radioactive material is expected. County officials will be notified of the problem. You will not be expected to do anything.
Alert
This is also a minor problem. Small amounts of radioactive material could be released inside the plant. County officials will be notified of the problem. You will not be expected to do anything.
Site Area Emergency
A more serious problem has taken place. Small amounts of radioactive material could be released near the plant. If you need to take protective actions, sirens will be sounded. Government Officials will tell you what you need to do over radio and television broadcast. If you hear the sirens, go indoors immediately and turn on your radio to KTAR (620 AM or 92.3 FM), KMVP (97.8 FM) or other local radio or television stations to hear instructions from government officials.
General Emergency
This is the most serious kind of problem. Radioactive material could be released outside the plant site. Sirens will be sounded if you have to take any protective actions. You should turn on your radio or television immediately and listen for information on what you need to do. If you hear the sirens, go indoors immediately and turn on your radio to KTAR (620 AM or 92.3 FM), KMVP (97.8 FM) or other local radio or television stations to hear instructions from government officials.