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Preparing for emergencies in nuclear power plants
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Swedish government has decided not to construct new nuclear power plants and is working to revise the energy policy. This month, let's look at the present status of nuclear power plants in Sweden.
Distribution of iodine tablets to the residents
There is a government authority called Swedish Radiation Protection Authority (SSI) in Sweden. The task of SSI is to protect people and the environment from the harmful effect of radiation. Last June, SSI and local governments have distributed iodine tablets and brochures to the people who live within 15km from the plant.
What is iodine tablet used for?
The brochure shows what to do in radiation leakage accidents.
Iodine tablet is used as follows. If an accident occurs in the nuclear plant, "radioactive iodine", which is extremely dangerous, will be emitted into the air. If we inhale radioactive iodine, it may cause thyroid cancer. But we can prevent it by taking the iodine tablet before inhaling radioactive iodine, so that we have enough iodine in our thyroid beforehand. Children are most affected by the radioactive iodine. Adults above 40 years old don't necessarily have to take iodine tablets.
"What should we do when an accident occurs?
In the brochure, you can find out what to do in case of leakage accident. When there is an accident, the alarm will go off. Then, the special radio in each house is automatically turned on and may warn you to evacuate. If you are urged to evacuate, you should follow the instructions written in the brochure. You should take the iodine tablet only when you are instructed on the radio. Don't rush to take the tablet just because you heard the alarm.
The brochures and tablets were not delivered to my house. But we always have to be prepared for accidents. It's better to use natural energies considering global warming and the environment. I hope more electricity will be generated from natural energies.
Reference: Sweden Environment News September 2001 issue (issued/edited by Lena Lindahl)
Translation : Satoko Fujii(Ecology Symphony Nov 2001)
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