|
Nuclear
Did you know...
Although the construction and operation of these facilities are closely monitored and regulated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), accidents are possible. An accident could result in dangerous levels of radiation that could affect the health and safety of the public living near the nuclear power plant.
Local and state governments, federal agencies, and the electric utilities have emergency response plans in the event of a nuclear power plant incident. The plans define two “emergency planning zones.” One zone covers an area within a 10-mile radius of the plant, where it is possible that people could be harmed by direct radiation exposure. The second zone covers a broader area, usually up to a 50-mile radius from the plant, where radioactive materials could contaminate water supplies, food crops, and livestock.
The potential danger from an accident at a nuclear power plant is exposure to radiation. This exposure could come from the release of radioactive material from the plant into the environment, usually characterized by a plume (cloud-like formation) of radioactive gases and particles. The major hazards to people in the vicinity of the plume are radiation exposure to the body from the cloud and particles deposited on the ground, inhalation of radioactive materials, and ingestion of radioactive materials.
Radioactive materials are composed of atoms that are unstable. An unstable atom gives off its excess energy until it becomes stable. The energy emitted is radiation. Each of us is exposed to radiation daily from natural sources, including the Sun and the Earth. Small traces of radiation are present in food and water. Radiation also is released from man-made sources such as X-ray machines, television sets, and microwave ovens. Radiation has a cumulative effect. The longer a person is exposed to radiation, the greater the effect. A high exposure to radiation can cause serious illness or death.
Although the risk of a chemical accident is slight, knowing how to handle these products and how to react during an emergency can reduce the risk of injury.
Minimizing Exposure to Radiation
Distance - The more distance between you and the source of the radiation, the better. This could be evacuation or remaining indoors to minimize exposure.
Shielding - The more heavy, dense material between you and the source of the radiation, the better
Time - Most radioactivity loses its strength fairly quickly.
If an accident at a nuclear power plant were to release radiation in your area, local authorities would activate warning sirens or another approved alert method. They also would instruct you through the Emergency Alert System (EAS) on local television and radio stations on how to protect yourself.
How Will You Be Informed About A Radiological Emergency?
If there is a nuclear power plant in your local area, you will be notified in one or more of the following ways:
- Your NOAA weather radio will warn you.
NOTE: Keep the radio in your bedroom. Keep it plugged in. Keep the power switch ON.
- Your local radio and TV stations will broadcast a warning.
- In boating and recreational areas surrounding a nuclear power plant, local emergency officials will sound sirens and/or use loudspeakers to warn visitors.
- Emergency workers and local officials will contact persons as needed. In the event of an emergency call 1-800-262-5283 or check www.georgiapower.com for any rumors you may hear. This phone number and address will only be active during an emergency.
Nuclear Terms to Know
Familiarize yourself with these terms to help identify a nuclear power plant emergency:
Notification of Unusual Event
A small problem has occurred at the plant. No radiation leak is expected. No action on your part will be necessary.
Alert
A small problem has occurred, and small amounts of radiation could leak inside the plant. This will not affect you and no action is required.
Site Area Emergency
Area sirens may be sounded. Listen to your radio or television for safety information.
General Emergency
Radiation could lake outside the plant and off the plant site. The sirens will sound. Tune to your local radio or television station for reports. Be prepared to follow instructions promptly.
|
