Limerick Power Plant

Since the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan on March 11, the safety of the Fukushima Daiichi power plant has been called into question innumerably because it was damaged from the natural disaster and is now leaking.

The results of nuclear radiation can range from minor headaches to death, and the effects can be immediately noticeable or only appear over time or after generations have passed.

In light of these potential dangers, the safety of the 104 nuclear reactors in the U.S. is being examined.

Eastern is not far from one of those reactors. The Limerick Power Plant is located in Montgomery County, approximately 22 miles away from Eastern’s campus. The first unit became commercially active in 1986 and the second in 1990. They are both licensed to operate for 40 years.

According to the Exelon Corp web site, “Limerick employs a sophisticated emergency response plan to protect public health and safety that is approved by the NRC and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The emergency plan includes coordination with local counties, municipalities and school districts.”

Created for the purpose of energy generation without the use of natural resources, nuclear reactors have been seen as innovative and useful for everyday use, but despite their usefulness, the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plants have been leaking radiation. Even with attempts to cool the plants and contain hazardous materials, the Japanese are still facing radiation contamination. A warning was sent out to anyone living within a 19-mile radius of the plant to stay indoors to avoid health risks.

With rising concern about nuclear power plants and the damage they can cause in times of natural disaster, sabotage and other emergencies, it seems that the Limerick Power Plant is misplaced for the Eastern community. The extent of natural disasters that hit Pennsylvania usually end at flooding, snow storms and hail. The Limerick Power Plant is very well equipped for emergencies. As of now, there appears to be nothing to worry about.

Source: CNN