Potassium iodide tablet distribution to take place at Beaver Valley Mall next week

CENTER TWP. ― The Pennsylvania Department of Health will offer free potassium iodide tablets to residents living or working near the Beaver Valley Power Station.

As a part of their annual distribution schedule, supplies of the tablets will be distributed from the Beaver Valley Mall from 2 to 7 p.m. on Aug. 22. Visitors can stop at the Center at the Mall location to receive their free supplies for themselves or family members in affected areas.

“Emergency preparedness is a critical part of public health, and that includes ensuring residents living and working near active nuclear facilities know what to do in case of an emergency,” said Debra Bogen, Secretary of Health. “Radiological emergencies are extremely rare, but when they do happen, it is important to have potassium iodide tablets on hand. The tablets should only be taken in the event of a nuclear emergency and when instructed to do so by state health officials. Please be aware that the tablets do expire after a few years, so please check yours and exchange them for new ones if necessary.”

Potassium iodide tablets are used as a preventative measure for emergencies around nuclear plants, adding additional layers of protection for residents. People should only take the tablets when instructed by health officials. Residents should ensure that their emergency supplies have not expired and take the opportunity to replace any supplies that may expire over the next year.

Residents can call the Department of Health at 1-877-PA-HEALTH or visit state health centers to learn of additional methods of obtaining the tablets. Information on how to administer the tablets is provided in the packaging, and public health nurses can answer any questions over the phone.

This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: Potassium iodide tablet distribution to take place at Beaver Valley Mall next week