Potassium iodide or KI tablets temporarily protect the thyroid gland in case radiation is released during an emergency at any of the state's five nuclear power plants.

State Health Secretary Dr. Calvin B. Johnson announced distribution of the tablets specifically for those residents living within a 10-mile radius of nuclear plants who didn't get them during a 2002 distribution or who have since misplaced the tablets.

"Evacuation is still the most important action recommended in the unlikely event of a release of radiation," Johnson said. "KI tablets only provide temporary protection for the thyroid gland against cancer and hypothyroid conditions. They do not provide protection against other types of health problems that may result from exposure to radiation. And they should never be taken unless directed by the governor or the state health secretary."

People who have KI tablets from the 2002 distribution do not need to replace them because they have a five-year shelf life. Tablets are annually tested by the state to ensure effectiveness. Residents will be notified if they need to be replaced.

Public health officials will issue two tablets for each person who lives or works within a 10-mile radius of a nuclear plant. People may take tablets for family members and those unable to pick them up after signing for them. Health officials also will provide instructions on how to store the pills and use them in case of an emergency.

Johnson recommended people discuss health issues about KI tablets with their physicians.

More than 640,000 people live within a 10-mile radius of the state's five plants, including: Three Mile Island Nuclear Generating Station, Limerick Generating Station, Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station, Susquehanna Steam Electric Station and Beaver Valley Power Station.

Distribution sites for those living near TMI include: Elizabethtown High School, 600 E. High St., Elizabethtown, from noon to 4 p.m.; New Cumberland Fire Hall, 319 4th St., New Cumberland, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Newberry Township Administration Building, 1915 Old Trail Road, Etters, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; the former Harrisburg East Mall, Boscov's Department Store, outside the second level mall entrance, 3201 Paxton St., Harrisburg, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and York County State Health Center, 1750 N. George St., York, from noon to 6 p.m.

For those living or working near Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station in York County, KI pills may be obtained at Citizens Volunteer Fire Company, 171 S. Main St., Fawn Grove, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

KI pills also are available at state health centers and county and municipal health departments during regular business hours.

For more information about KI tablets and where to get them, call 1-877-PA-HEALTH, or visit www.health.state.pa.us