Health Department to distribute free KI pills

Health officials are offering potassium iodide tablets to anyone living or working near the nuclear plant.

Montgomery County Office of Public Health will be participating in the Pennsylvania Department of Health Annual Free Potassium Iodide Distribution on Thursday, Aug. 9.

Montgomery County Office of Public Health will provide free potassium iodide (KI) tablets to Montgomery residents who live, work or attend schools within a 10-mile radius of the Limerick Generating Station from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Pottstown Health Center, 364 King St., Pottstown.

KI tablets can also be picked up daily, Monday Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Pottstown Health Center. Residents can also call Pottstown Health Center’s phone number (610-9705040) anytime of the year to inquire about the KI Tablets.

Potassium iodide, or KI, can help protect the thyroid gland against harmful radioactive iodine when taken as directed during radiological emergencies.

Individuals should only take KI when told to do so by state health officials or the governor.

Adults and children will receive a two day supply of KI. Directions detailing when and how to take the tablets, as well as instructions for proper storage, will be provided with the KI tablets. Individuals can pick up KI tablets for other families or those who are unable to pick them up on their own.

To help expedite the process, Montgomery County residents can complete the KI Public Form online at www.montcopa.org/index.aspx?nid=581 and then print it and bring it with them.

Unlike families, businesses are given a oneday supply of KI. Businesses with more than 100 employees should call the Pottstown Health Center (610-970-5040), to provide information on the number of employees, and to schedule a pick up time for their KI tablets. To expedite the process, businesses can complete the KI Business form and submit it by email to the Montgomery County Health Department at: www.montcopa.org/index.aspx?nid=581

Anyone can take the tablets as long as they are not allergic to iodine. They are safe for pregnant women, women who are breastfeeding, people on thyroid medicine, and children and infants. Individuals who are unsure if they should take KI should contact their healthcare provider. KI tablets are not provided for pets. Contact your veterinarian for information.

For more information regarding Potassium Iodide distribution visit: www.montcopa.org/index.aspx?nid=581

KI tablet distribution for Limerick Generating Station will also be available on Aug. 9 between 2 and 7 p.m. at the distribution sites below. No appointments are necessary.

• Keystone Fire Company, 240 N. Walnut St., Boyertown, PA 19512

• Kimberton Fire Hall, 2276 Kimberton Road, Phoenixville, PA 19460