FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can a nuclear power plant "blow up"?
No. A nuclear power plant does not contain any explosive material and therefore cannot explode. There can be, however, a steam explosion which can happen if there is a build-up of steam in the reactor and that can cause a breach of the reactor containment.
Can there be a Chernobyl in Vermont?
No. Chernobyl was an open, graphite-moderated reactor. There was no containment around the core and the graphite that was used to slow the reactor was susceptible to burning at high temperatures and that caused the fire and subsequent release at Chernobyl.
What kind of reactor is Vermont Yankee?
Vermont Yankee is a Boiling Water Reactor. That means that the water heated by the reactor is the same water that turns the turbine to create energy. A Pressurized Water Reactor uses two separate water loops to do that same process.
Where can I learn more about the plans for my town?
To learn more about the plans for your town please contact your Emergency Management Director (EMD). The EMD for your town can be reached by contacting your town office.
How can I help my town if there is an emergency?
Please contact your Emergency Management Director. There are many positions that can be filled during trainings, drills, and real emergencies. Your EMD may have certain functions that they need performed.
Where can I obtain a Tone-Alert Radio?
A tone-alert radio is provided free of charge to every household and business in the EPZ. They are available through your local Emergency Management Director. For more information on tone-alert radios, please click here.
If there is an evacuation ordered, where do I go?
During an emergency tune into an Emergency Alert System (EAS) Radio Station, such as 96.7 WTSA, or 92.7 WKVT, for instructions. If an evacuation is ordered and they will tell you where to go. You may be asked to go to a reception center in Westminster, VT, Keene, NH, or Greenfield, MA. For more information on evacuation, please click here.
What is "Shelter in Place"?
There are times when an evacuation is not possible, due to weather hazards or other problems. In those cases you may be asked to shelter in place which means to close all doors and windows, shut off outside air coming into your home, find an inside room and wait until its all clear. You will be told when it is safe to evacuate by your EAS station. For more information on shelter in place, please click here.
What is Potassium Iodide (KI) and where can I get it?
Potassium Iodide (KI) is a stable salt that blocks the uptake of radioactive iodine into the thyroid gland. If you live or work in the 10-mile EPZ please contact the Vermont Department of Health for potassium iodide. For more information on Potassium Iodide (KI), please click here.
When will the Western Reception Center be open?
The Western Reception Center will be located in Wilmington, Vermont, at the Twin Valley High School.
Where can I find more information on this subject?
Click here to see information which is contained in the Emergency Public Information Calendar.
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