Just as Unprepared Ursula was starting to feel good about preparedness, she realized there was an emergency situation she had never really considered: What happens in the event of a nuclear power plant incident? It may seem improbable, but nuclear power plants exist outside of The Simpson’s. Luckily Team Preparedness has the answer!

Why talk about nuclear power plants?
Nuclear power plants operate in most states in the country (including Missouri and Illinois) and produce about 20 percent of the nation’s power. Nearly three million people live within 10 miles (16 kilometers) of an operating nuclear power plant.

Nuclear power plants use the heat generated from nuclear fission in a contained environment to convert water to steam, which powers generators to produce electricity. Nuclear radiation is a by-product of nuclear fission, and radioactive particles released into the air can be harmful to people, animals, crops, and the environment.

Although the construction and operation of nuclear power plants are closely monitored and regulated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), accidents at these plants are possible. An accident at a nuclear power plant could release dangerous levels of radiation that could affect the health and safety of the people living near the plant.

How can I protect myself in case of a nuclear power plant accident?
The three basic ways to reduce your exposure are through:
Time - Decrease the amount of time you spend near the source of radiation.
Distance - Increase your distance from a radiation source.
Shielding - Increase the shielding between you and the radiation source. Shielding is anything that creates a barrier between people and the radiation source. Depending on the type of radiation, the shielding can range from something as thin as a plate of window glass or as thick as several feet of concrete. Being inside a building or a vehicle can provide shielding from some kinds of radiation.

Is it true that people exposed to radiation “glow” with radioactivity?
No. Radioactive material can burn the human body, but exposed people do not become radioactive themselves. Radiation never causes a person to “glow.”

Be Prepared for a Nuclear Power Plant Accident. Learn the terms used to describe nuclear power plant emergencies and about your community’s warning system. For More Information on Nuclear Power Plant Safety, click here.

Kathrine

Kathrine Vigil is the AmeriCorps NPRC Response Member for the American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter.