A nuclear accident occurs when dangerous radioactive material is released into the atmosphere, typically as the result of an accident at a nuclear power plant. Although the construction and operation of these facilities are closely monitored and regulated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), accidents can happen.
The Hartford Capitol Region lies within the 50-mile ingestion pathway zone of the Millstone Nuclear Power Plant located in Waterford. All residents of the Hartford area are potentially at risk from inhaling or ingesting radioactive particles blown far from the power plant in a cloud called a ‘plume.’
A high exposure to radiation can cause serious illness or death, and can contaminate wide swaths of land and the structures on that land.
Terms Used to Describe Nuclear Power Plant Emergencies
- Notification of Unusual Event: A problem has occurred at the plant, but no radiation leak is expected. Federal, state, and county officials will be notified right away. No action on your part is necessary.
- Alert: A problem has occurred at the plant, and small amounts of radiation could leak inside the plant. This will not affect you. No action on your part is necessary.
- Site Area Emergency: A more serious problem has occurred at the plant, and small amounts of radiation could leak from the plant. If necessary, state and local officials will act to ensure public safety. Area sirens may sound. Listen to local radio/television stations for information.
- General Emergency: A very serious problem has occurred at the plant, and radiation could leak outside the plant and off the plant site. Area sirens will sound. Listen to local radio/television stations for information. State and local officials will act to ensure public safety. Be prepared to follow instructions promptly.
Learn to protect yourself and your family. Download our Hazard Prep Checklists and take steps to be prepared before, during, and after a nuclear accident.
Before
What Can I Do Before a Nuclear Accident?
- Learn the meanings of the terms used to describe nuclear power plant emergencies.
- Plan how you will safely evacuate if an evacuation is ordered. All members of your household should know where to go if they have to leave.
- Learn how to shelter-in-place.
- Register for CT Alert.
- Plan how you will communicate with your family, friends, and relatives if telephone or Internet systems are not functioning.
- Make a 72-hour emergency kit.
- Plan what you will do to protect or evacuate your pets and/or farm animals.
- Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe deposit box.
- Learn the specific emergency plans for a nuclear emergency that apply to any places where members of your household spend time.
- Consider your transportation options in case you have to evacuate. Obtain public emergency information materials from the power company that operates your local nuclear power plant or your local emergency services office.
Download a printable PDF version of this checklist
During
What Should I Do During a Nuclear Accident?
- If a nuclear accident occurs and there is a risk that the radioactive material released could reach the Hartford area, state and local authorities will activate warning sirens and other methods of alert, such as CT Alert.
- Follow the instructions given, which may include directions for evacuating or for sheltering-in-place to reduce any possible exposure to radiation.
- If you are told to evacuate, keep the car windows and vents closed as you travel, and use the internal recirculating air feature within the vehicle.
- If you are advised to remain indoors, turn off the air conditioner, ventilation fans, furnace, and other air intakes.
- Shield yourself by placing heavy, dense material between you and the radiation source. Go to a basement or other underground area, if possible.
- Do not use the telephone unless absolutely necessary.
- Keep your pets with you and take them with you if you evacuate. You will not be allowed to return for them until local authorities say that it is safe to return. Shelter livestock and give them stored feed, if time permits.
- If you suspect you have come into contact with radioactive particles, you will need to decontaminate yourself. You can eliminate 95 percent of radioactive materials by simply taking two actions:
- Taking a thorough shower (including a very thorough shampoo of your hair).
- Removing your clothing and shoes, sealing them in a plastic bag, and placing the bag outside the house.
- If pets may have come into contact with radioactive materials, shower with your pet if possible. If you shower first and then deal with your pet, you may re-contaminate yourself.
Download a printable PDF version of this checklist
After
What Should I Do After a Nuclear Accident?
- Go to a designated public shelter if you have been told to evacuate or you feel it is unsafe to remain in your home. Text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter (example: shelter 12345).
- Seek medical treatment for unusual symptoms, such as skin burns or nausea, as soon as possible.
- Listen to local radio/television stations for the latest emergency information.
- If possible, check on and help any neighbors who may require special assistance. Keep food in covered containers or in the refrigerator. Food not previously covered should be washed before being put into containers.
Download a printable PDF version of this checklist
