PA Dept. Of Health Distributing Free Potassium Iodide Tablets To Residents Near PA’s 4 Operating Nuclear Power Plants Aug. 14

On July 31, the state Department of Health announced it is coordinating the statewide distribution of free potassium iodide (KI) tablets on August 14 for all Pennsylvanians who live, work, or study within 10 miles of the four active nuclear power plants in the Commonwealth.

The KI tablet distribution events are part of emergency preparedness planning and are only to be used in the unlikely event of a radiological release from a nuclear power plant.

The facilities include Beaver Valley Power Station, Beaver County; Limerick Generating Station, Montgomery County; Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station, York County; and Susquehanna Steam Electric Station, Luzerne County.

[Note: Three Mile Island Nuclear Power Plant has not yet restarted, so it isn’t on this list.]

“The distribution of the KI tablets, which reduce the risk of thyroid cancer from exposure to radioactive iodine, is done as a precautionary measure associated with emergency preparedness planning,” said Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen. “The tablets are only to be used when directed by emergency response officials. The Department encourages anyone with expired tablets to replace them with new ones that can be easily obtained from any of the pickup locations on August 14.”

Pennsylvanians are encouraged to pick up free potassium iodide (KI) tablets during the statewide distribution event on August 14 at the following times and locations. 

Printed instructions, including when to take KI, proper dosage, and storage guidance, will be provided during pickup.

Click Here for distribution locations.

Pennsylvanians should check the expiration date on their current KI tablet packaging. KI tablets issued in these areas prior to July 2024 are likely expired and should be replaced.

Expired tablets can be safely disposed of in household trash. Please do not flush them.

When To Take KI

In the unlikely event of a radiological release from a nuclear plant, radioactive iodine may be released into the air.

 Taking KI tablets when directed by emergency response officials will reduce the risk of thyroid cancer from exposure to radioactive iodine.

While KI does not protect against all forms of radiation, nor prevent exposure, it adds a layer of protection critical in certain radiological emergency scenarios.

KI is safe to take for individuals of all ages, including infants and children, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and people on most forms of thyroid medication. 

Residents should consult with their health care provider if they are unsure about using KI or have an allergy to iodine.

Pennsylvanians may obtain KI tablets on behalf of others, including family, neighbors, or individuals unable to attend in person.

Schools, businesses, and institutions located within 10 miles of a nuclear power facility may continue to coordinate bulk tablet pickups with local public health partners.

Residents who are unable to attend a distribution event can still obtain free KI tablets, which are available year-round at county and municipal health departments, State Health Centers serving these areas, or by calling the Department of Health at 1-877-PA-HEALTH.

For additional information on potassium iodide and staying safe during a radiological event near a nuclear power plant, please visit the Pennsylvania Department of Health website.

Click Here for the Health Department announcement.

NewsClips:

-- PennLive - Charles Thompson: ‘Do It Right, Do It Safe’ Outweighs ‘Don’t Do It’ At Public Meeting On Restarting Three Mile Island Nuclear Power Plant To Power A.I. Data Centers

-- The Center Square: Nuclear Power Is Big In Pennsylvania, But So Is Worry

[Posted: July 31, 2025]  PA Environment Digest