Nuclear radiation from Japan no threat to Arizona

State Will Continue to Monitor Levels

PHOENIX–The devastating earthquake and tsunami that last week triggered a radiological situation at one of Japan’s nuclear power plants does not pose a public health threat in Arizona.

The yet unfolding radiological situation has raised some concern about possible exposure to radiation and prompted questions about the need for potassium iodide or KI in Arizona.

Potassium iodide protects the thyroid from absorbing radioactive iodine after exposure to high levels of radiation. The Arizona Radiation Regulatory Agency (ARRA) is continually monitoring radiation levels in state and, at present (March 15, 2011 at 3:00 pm), there are no reports of elevated or above normal readings.

Due to the distance between Japan and Arizona, radiation levels are highly unlikely to rise above normal levels already present in the atmosphere. Consequently, it is not necessary to purchase or take KI.

Local, state and federal agencies always encourage Arizonans to take a proactive interest in their personal and family preparedness. While natural disasters are difficult to predict and impossible to prevent, people can take preemptive measures to help protect their families in a future emergency.

1. Prepare a Plan – Write and rehearse family communication and preparedness plans that identify a family meeting place, account for special needs, and include local emergency numbers and an “out-of-town” contact.

2. Make a Kit – Gather enough to sustain you and your family for at least three days. Suggested kit items include first aid supplies, non-perishable food, drinking water (one gallon/per person/per day), a flashlight, batteries and a radio.

3. Be Informed – Learn about hazards in your community and Arizona by listening to/watching local and national weather and news coverage. You can contact your local emergency management office to learn about readiness planning and preparations.

For more information on the emergency in Japan, including answers to some frequently asked questions, visit the Arizona Emergency Information Network (AzEIN) website at www.azein.gov.