HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) announced it will distribute free potassium iodide (KI) tablets on August 22 to residents and workers within 10 miles of the state’s four active nuclear power plants. This annual event is part of routine preventive measures in case of future radiological emergencies. Additionally, Chester and Montgomery counties will hold their distributions on August 23 and 24.
“Emergency preparedness is a critical part of public health, and that includes ensuring residents living and working near active nuclear facilities know what to do in case of an emergency,” said Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen. “Radiological emergencies are extremely rare, but when they do happen, it is important to have potassium iodide tablets on hand. The tablets should only be taken in the event of a nuclear emergency and when instructed to do so by state health officials. Please be aware that the tablets do expire after a few years, so please check yours and exchange them for new ones if necessary.”
Potassium iodide can protect the thyroid gland against harmful radioactive iodine when taken as directed. It is safe for most individuals, including pregnant or breastfeeding women, people on thyroid medication, and children. Those uncertain about taking potassium iodide should consult a healthcare provider and only take it if instructed by state health officials. Residents should check the expiration dates of their current doses and replace expired tablets, which can be disposed of in regular trash but should not be flushed.
The state’s four active nuclear facilities are Beaver Valley Power Station, Limerick Generating Station, Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station, and Susquehanna Steam Electric Station. These facilities are closely regulated and well-maintained.
Pennsylvanians living or working within 10 miles of these plants can obtain KI tablets by visiting a distribution center on the specified dates, calling the Department of Health at 1-877-PA-HEALTH, or visiting a local department office or state health center. Individuals can request tablets for family members or others unable to attend. Schools and employers within the 10-mile radius can also arrange to receive their supply.
The distribution schedule is as follows:
August 22 | 2:00 to 7:00 PM:
- Beaver Valley Power Station: Beaver Valley Mall, Center at the Mall, Unit #284, 570 Beaver Valley Mall Blvd., Monaca, PA, 15061
- Limerick Generating Station: Keystone Fire Company, 240 N. Walnut St., Boyertown, PA 19512
- Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station: East Drumore Township Municipal Building, 925 Robert Fulton Hwy., Quarryville, PA, 17566 and Peach Bottom Recreation Center, 5 Pendyrus St., Delta, PA, 17314
- Susquehanna Steam Electric Station: Berwick City Hall, 1800 N. Market St., Berwick, PA 18603; Butler Township Municipal Building, 411 West Butler Drive, Drums, PA, 18222; Luzerne County Community College, Public Safety Center, 1333 South Prospect St., Nanticoke, PA, 18634
August 23 and August 24 | 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM (Chester County only):
- Kimberton Fire Company, 2276 Kimberton Rd., Phoenixville, PA 19460
- August 23: Bulk pick-up for businesses and organizations
- August 24: For residents
August 24 | 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Montgomery County only):
- Limerick Fire Company, 390 W. Ridge Pike, Royersford, PA 19468
- On August 23, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, there is a registration-only business pick-up at a separate location. Contact Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services for more information.
Information sheets on how to use and store the KI tablets will be provided. Public health nurses will be available to answer questions over the phone.
This initiative is part of Pennsylvania’s commitment to public health and safety, particularly for those living near nuclear facilities. The availability of potassium iodide tablets is a precautionary measure to ensure residents are prepared in the unlikely event of a radiological emergency.
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