WEST CHESTER, PA — In a continued effort to safeguard public health during potential radiological emergencies, the Chester County Health Department is distributing free potassium iodide (KI) tablets to individuals who live, work, or attend school within 10 miles of the Limerick Generating Station or Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station.
The tablets will be available on Thursday, August 14, from 12:30 PM to 6:30 PM at the Covered Bridge Room at Kimberton Fire Company in Phoenixville. The fire company is located at the intersection of Pike Springs Road and Firehouse Lane. Residents and businesses are strongly encouraged to pre-register for the event at chesco.org/ki.
This KI distribution is part of the county’s preparedness strategy for those in the Plume Exposure Pathway Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ) — a federally designated area where protective actions such as sheltering, evacuation, and iodine prophylaxis may be recommended during a radiological release.
The tablets distributed during this event are effective through January 31, 2034. Any KI obtained from the Health Department or the Pennsylvania Department of Health before August 2024 is now considered expired and should be replaced.
In addition to the KI distribution, the event will host a Community Resource Fair, providing attendees access to a range of local organizations offering services in mental health, addiction support, senior care, disability assistance, food access, and healthcare resources. Participants are encouraged to take advantage of these offerings while picking up their KI tablets.
Bulk orders for businesses and organizations within the 10-mile EPZ will also be fulfilled at the same time and location. Pre-registration for group pickups is required.
Potassium iodide is a stable form of iodine that can help protect the thyroid gland by blocking radioactive iodine from being absorbed. It is only effective if taken shortly before or immediately after exposure. While it does not prevent radioactive iodine from entering the body, it does reduce the risk of thyroid cancer, especially in children and pregnant individuals.
However, officials stress that KI should not be taken unless explicitly instructed by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Governor’s Office, or the Chester County Health Department. Not all radiological events release radioactive iodine, and unnecessary use of KI can carry health risks.
Detailed dosage instructions will be provided with the tablets, and additional guidance will be available onsite.
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