09/18/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/18/2025 12:28
• For those who live or work within 10 miles of the Salem/Hope Creek Nuclear Stations
• To check whether you are within the Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ), visit de.gov/epz
SMYRNA, Del. - The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) and the Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) will distribute potassium iodide (KI) pills to Delaware residents living within the 10-mile radius (also known as the Emergency Planning Zone or EPZ) of the Salem/Hope Creek Nuclear Generating Stations. The free tablets will be distributed on Thursday, October 2nd, between 11:00 PM and 7:00 PM at Townsend Fire Company, located at 107 Main Street, Townsend, 19734.
KI is available to residents who have received it previously and whose tablets have reached their expiration date, as well as those who never received tablets before. Individuals with home or business addresses within the EPZ are eligible to receive the KI tablets. Recipients must bring a photo ID such as a driver's license, proof of residency such as a utility bill, or proof of employment within the EPZ when they go to the Townsend Fire Company Hall-this is the only requirement to receive KI tablets. Residents who have KI that is expired can bring those tablets to the distribution center to exchange for new ones.
KI does not protect against external radiation but can help protect the thyroid gland from ingested or inhaled radioactive iodine that might be released in a radiation emergency. KI is one of the protective measures outlined in Delaware's emergency plans developed for use in a nuclear incident. The State of Delaware receives the tablets through a program initiated by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). Delaware residents living outside of the 10-mile EPZ who would like to obtain KI tablets should contact their pharmacist. KI is also available over the counter at some local pharmacies.
For additional information regarding the potassium iodide distribution program in Delaware, call the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) section at 302-659-3362. More information and resources can be found at PrepareDE.org.
RESOURCES AND INFORMATION:
2025-2026 Emergency Plan Information for NJ and DE (PSEG Calendar) with up-to-date info and resources.
ABOUT DEMA
The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) is the lead state agency for coordination of comprehensive emergency preparedness, training, response, recovery, and mitigation services to save lives, protect Delaware's economic base, and reduce the impact of emergencies. DEMA is a division within the Department of Safety and Homeland Security (DSHS) and authorized by Delaware Code.
Social Media: Delaware Emergency Management Agency on Facebook, X, and Instagram