Radiological Accidents
A radiological accident is an event that involves the release of potentially dangerous radioactive materials into the environment. These accidents can occur anywhere that radiological materials are used, stored or transported.
Radioactive materials are harmful to living cells. The more you are exposed to radiation, the greater the cell damage and the more likely you are to become ill. Radiation cannot be seen, tasted, smelled or felt.
There are two nuclear power plants in Minnesota: Prairie Island Nuclear Generating Plant near Red Wing and the Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant, located 20 miles southeast of Stearns County.
Those who live within 10 miles of a nuclear power plant, "the plume emergency planning zone," will receive materials annually regarding nuclear power plant radiological emergencies. Read the materials carefully and store them in a readily available location. Part of Stearns County lies in the "ingestion emergency planning zone," within 50 miles of the Monticello Plant. Facility and government officials are required to develop and practice emergency procedures for both zones.
Preparedness
What to do before a radiological accident
- Learn the warning signals and all sources of warning used in your community. Make sure you know what the signals are, what they mean, how they will be used, and what you should do if you hear them.
- Find out what public buildings in your community may have been designated as fallout shelters by looking for yellow and black fallout shelter signs, or contacting the Stearns County Emergency Management office.
- Learn about your community's evacuation plans. Such plans may include evacuation routes, relocation sites, how the public will be notified and transportation options for people who do not own cars and those who have special needs.
Response
What to do during a radiological accident
- Keep a battery-powered radio with you, and listen for official information. Follow the instructions given. You may be asked to evacuate via specific routes, or to shelter-in-place.
Recovery
What to do after a radiological accident
- Do not leave your shelter until officials say it is safe.
- Follow officials' recommendations for using water, food from gardens and farms, livestock and milk that may have been contaminated.
- Stay away from areas marked "radiation hazard" or "HAZMAT."
For more information:
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)
Information on Monticello Plant