The Pennsylvania Department of Health will be giving away free potassium iodide (KI) tablets on August 22 to Pennsylvania residents who live or work within 10 miles of the state’s four active nuclear power plants. This is being done as part of routine preparedness for future emergencies. The Department of Health holds an annual distribution event each summer. Tablets will also be distributed in Chester and Montgomery counties on August 23 in Boyertown.

“Emergency preparedness is a critical part of public health, and this includes ensuring that residents who live and work near active nuclear facilities know what to do in the event of an emergency,” said Health Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen. “Radiological emergencies are extremely rare, but when they do occur, 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 directed by state health authorities. Please note that the tablets expire after a few years, so check yours and replace them with new ones if necessary.”

Potassium iodide (KI) can provide an additional layer of protection when used appropriately. It protects the thyroid from harmful radioactive iodine and can be taken by anyone who is not allergic. The tablets are safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women, people taking thyroid medication, and children and infants.

People who are unsure about whether they should take potassium iodide should ask a doctor and take it only if directed to do so by state health officials. Residents who already have KI tablets should check the expiration date on their doses and replace any expired medications. Expired tablets can be thrown in the regular trash, but should not be flushed down the toilet or drain.

The state’s four active nuclear power plants are strictly regulated, secure, and well maintained. The Commonwealth’s active nuclear power plants are the Beaver Valley Generating Station, the Limerick Generating Station, the Peach Bottom Nuclear Generating Station, and the Susquehanna Steam Generating Station.

The AI ​​tablets are available to all Pennsylvania residents who live or work within 10 miles of the state’s active nuclear power plants. They can order them from one of the distribution centers listed below, call the Department of Health at 1-877-PA-HEALTH, or visit a local health department or state health center. Individuals who request AI tablets can also do so for other family members or people who cannot obtain the tablets themselves. School districts and employers within 10 miles can also arrange to obtain their AI tablets.

The AI ​​tablets will be distributed at the locations listed below at the dates and times specified. An appointment is not necessary.

For the Limerick Generating Station, AI tablets will be distributed on August 22 from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Keystone Fire Company, 240 N. Walnut St., Boyertown, PA 19512. No appointment is necessary.

Packs come with information sheets explaining how many KI tablets to take, when to take the tablets and how to store them. Public health nurses can answer questions about the procedure over the phone. For more information about potassium iodide (KI) tablets and safety in nuclear power plants, visit the Department of Health website.