What to Do in a Nuclear Power Plant Emergency By Tyrone Smith, Madison County Extension Agent

Nuclear power plants comprise about 17 percent of the world's electrical power. There are approximately 400 plants around the world, with more than 100 located in the United States. Since 1980, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission requires that each commercial plant establish an on- and off-site emergency response plan. However, no plan is fail proof!

The Extension agent's Handbook for Emergency Protection and Response suggest you do the following if you are involved in a nuclear power plant emergency:

1. Keep calm. Not all incidents result in the release of radiation.
2. Stay tuned to local radio or television. Authorities will give specific instructions.
3. Evacuate if you are advised to do so. Keep car windows and vents closed; use re-circulated air.
4. If you are not advised to evacuate, remain indoors. Close doors and windows; turn off the air conditioner, ventilation fans, furnace and other air intakes. Go to a basement or other underground area if possible. If you must go outdoors, cover your nose and mouth with a handkerchief.
5. Do not use the telephone unless absolutely necessary. All lines will be needed for emergency calls.
6. If you have just been outdoors, take a thorough shower. Change your clothes and shoes. Put the items you were wearing in a plastic bag. Seal the bag and store it out of the way. Clothes can later be washed as you normally would in the washing machine. Any contamination would remain in the water and not contaminate the washing machine.
7. Put food in covered containers or in the refrigerator. Food not previously in covered containers should be washed first.
8. If you would like more information please contact your county extension agent.

While newly constructed nuclear power plants are much safer today, and these plants do not cause widespread damage as a nuclear weapon, radiation is still a health hazard. As a concerned citizen, you are still advised to attend public meetings to learn more about radioactivity, and to keep abreast of any new accident emergency plans that will benefit you and your family.