First Hour After the Outbreak

Time frame: 0 to 1 hour after Outbreak
Phase: Containment

I've divided up the Zombie Outbreak Protocol into different phases, the first one being Containment. In terms of an outbreak, the catalyst would be the loss of containment, meaning the protocol begins at the point where things go out of control. The Containment Phase is focused on establishing containment, not of the entire situation or population, but of a subset of the previously contained area which is considered safe.

Let's assume that you have no prior knowledge of this outbreak and are taking action on-the-fly (no prior preparations). Of course, after reading through the Protocol, you may proactively take steps to expedite steps later on and gain a higher chance of survival.

Know what you're dealing with:
Since zombie outbreaks come in all shapes and sizes, it is key to find out as much as you can, as quickly as you can. If news reports indicate that it might be a zombie outbreak, assume it really is a zombie outbreak. Take note of how it is spread (bite vs. airborne) and what weaknesses the infected are exhibiting (adversity to light, decapitation, etc). This information may not be readily available, but keep an ear open while moving on to the next task.

Arm yourself:
Because you don't know where the outbreak started, you have to assume that the risk of attack is imminent and can come from any direction. Quickly grab the nearest close-range weapon within arms reach: knife, scissors, or even umbrella. Scan the nearby area and locate a mid-range swinging blunt object: bat, stick, or pipe. You may have to rely on this for the time being as firearms are probably not readily accessible (unless you live in Texas, or Newark, NJ).

Have others initiate the protocol:
After the first hour, the situation may be in utter chaos (depending on the particular infection you are dealing with), making communication rather difficult. Remember to always keep your cell phones/mobile devices fully charged. You don't know when you will have the luxury of charging it. Contact your closest family members, friends, and lieutenants and tell them to "Initiate the Protocol". The more people that can effectively follow the protocol in the event of an outbreak, the greater chance of survival of the human race.