Centre Region COG
Office of Emergency Management

2643 Gateway Drive, Suite 3  ●  State College, PA 16801  ●  (814) 235-7838

 

 

 

 

Radiological Incidents

  

While it is unlikely that a serious radiological emergency will occur, the Centre Region is in the Emergency Planning Zones (EPZ) for the Penn State University Breazeale Training Reactor.  The threat from the University Training Reactor is limited to the reactor site.

 

It is highly unlikely that the University Breazeale Training Reactor will cause a serious radiological emergency.  First, as a training reactor is it a small reactor, unlike full-scale commercial nuclear plants producing electricity.  Second, since 9/11 the Nuclear Regulatory Commission has put into place stringent safety requirements and security measures.  The NRC regularly monitors the Training Reactor and routinely visits since Sept. 11 to evaluate safety and security enhancements.  

 

The following information is provided to assist residents with radiological concerns.

If a radiological incident occurs and you are advised to do so by emergency officials:

Close and lock home doors and windows.

Keep car windows and vents closed; use re-circulating air.

If you must go outdoors, cover your nose and mouth with a handkerchief.

If you have just been outdoors, take a thorough shower.  Change your clothes and shoes.  Put the items you were wearing in a plastic bag.  Seal the bag and store it out of the way until you receive official notice of how the items should be handled.

If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.

 

Preparedness Brochures:

FEMA Are You Ready?:: Nuclear Power Plant Emergency
 

Links:

FEMA: Nuclear Power Plant Emergencies

PEMA: Nuclear Power Plant Emergencies