Officials distributing potassium iodide tablets

PHOENIXVILLE » As a part of Chester County’s ongoing emergency preparedness efforts, the Chester County Health Department is making available free potassium iodide tablets for people who live within a 10-mile radius of the Limerick nuclear power plant on Thursday, Aug. 9, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Kimberton Fire Company in Phoenixville. The fire company is located at the intersection of Pike Springs Road and Firehouse Lane.

Those living within a 10-mile radius of Exelon’s Limerick Generating Station are in an area called the Plume Exposure Pathway Emergency Planning Zone. In this area, there are protective action plans in place to mitigate any potential exposure to radioactive materials. These plans include sheltering, evacuation, and potassium iodide distribution methods.

Potassium Iodide (KI) is a form of stable iodine. When taken as directed, it helps protect the thyroid gland against the harmful effects of radioactive iodine that may be released during a radiological emergency. One dose of KI protects the thyroid for 24 hours. Infants, children, adults, and pregnant women are all encouraged to take the allotted KI dose when instructed. The dosage instructions for all age groups are available and are included with the KI tablets. Further education will be provided at the distribution event.

Not all radiological releases involve radioactive iodine. Residents should not take their potassium iodide dose unless directed to do so by Pennsylvania Department of Health officials and/or the governor.