WASHINGTON D.C: Leaders from the US broadcast, cable and satellite industries have made a detailed presentation to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). It consists of over 50 best practices recommendations detailing prevention and restoration measures to ensure the continued operation and security of media facilities in the face of a national emergency.

These recommendations were the result of a focussed survey of media facilities across the US.

The recommendations were presented to members of the Media Security and Reliability Council (MSRC) at its biannual meeting at the FCC. The 41-member Federal Advisory Committee will complete voting on these recommendations by 26 November.

The Communications Infrastructure Security, Access and Restoration Working Group presented to the Council the best practices recommendations detailing prevention and restoration measures that local media can implement. The best practices included recommendations regarding the physical security, backup power, and redundant facilities for radio stations, local television stations and cable television companies.

They also included recommendations related to disaster recovery plans of radio and television broadcasters, cable companies, direct broadcast satellite (DBS) and digital satellite radio providers, and other delivery media. FCC Chairman Michael Powell added, "This fourth meeting of the MSRC Council demonstrates the continued commitment of the FCC and the media industry to take the necessary steps to achieve a fundamental priority of this Commission and this country-securing and protecting our homeland."

The Public Communications and Safety Working Group reported to the Council on an upcoming workshop they plan to conduct. They are preparing to study Tampa, Florida as a model for implementation of existing MSRC best practices recommendations, and to develop new recommendations based upon local and regional practices in the Tampa Bay area.