Pennsylvania Distributes Free Potassium Iodide Tablets Near Four Nuclear Plants

The Pennsylvania Department of Health is coordinating a statewide distribution of free potassium iodide (KI) tablets on August 14 for residents, workers, and students living within 10 miles of the state's four active nuclear power plants. These tablets are a precautionary measure designed to reduce the risk of thyroid cancer from exposure to radioactive iodine in the unlikely event of a radiological release, and should only be taken when directed by emergency response officials. Residents are urged to check the expiration dates on their current KI tablets, as those issued prior to July 2024 are likely expired and should be replaced. The distribution will occur at multiple locations near the Peach Bottom, Susquehanna, Limerick, and Beaver Valley plants, and instructions on proper dosage, storage, and timing will be provided. Expired tablets can be safely disposed of in household trash but should not be flushed. Those unable to attend the August 14 distribution can obtain free KI tablets year-round at county and municipal health departments, State Health Centers, or by calling the Department of Health's hotline.