Statement of Function
The Indian River County Division of Radiological Emergency Preparedness function is to develop and coordinate with Federal, State and Utility agencies a detailed emergency plan in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from a radiological emergency at the St. Lucie Nuclear Power Plant. Indian River County is responsible for the sheltering and decontamination of St. Lucie County's evacuees in the event of an incident that results in the release or deposition of radiological contaminants.

• Although the potential for a radiological incident is extremely remote, we have taken a proactive position to ensure public safety.  Federal authorities established two emergency planning areas, a 10-mile radius from the plant site known as the Plume Exposure Pathway for St. Lucie County residents and a 50 mile radius extending from the plant site known as the Ingestion Pathway for St. Lucie and surrounding counties. Indian River County is located within the Ingestion Pathway Zone. The principal exposure source from this pathway would be from ingestion of contaminated water or foods.  Through Federal, Utility, State and Local agencies pre-planned protective actions, are in place for residents living in both areas.
• The St. Lucie Nuclear Power Plant is located on Hutchison Island approximately 8 miles southeast of Ft. Pierce. Nuclear energy production is monitored closely by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission a federal government agency, ensuring compliance with federal regulations on public health, safety and the environment. Florida Power and Light provides extensive programs designed to ensure public health and safety is protected through plant design; experienced and well–trained employees; a comprehensive emergency plan; and a strong security program. On site inspections are conducted daily and reliable service is maintained through a variety of backup safety measures.
• Indian River County is required annually to participate in Federal evaluated exercises to test and evaluate our preparedness plan for a radiological incident at the St. Lucie Nuclear Power Plant. Our exercises and participation has always been successful and we have consistently received high marks from the Federal Emergency Management Evaluators.
• In the event of a radiological incident, Indian River County is prepared with highly skilled/trained personnel in Fire/Rescue, Law Enforcement, Red Cross and the Department of Health to swiftly deal with the incident. In coordination with the Department of Emergency Management the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and the public information lines will be activated when required.  The Department of Emergency Services will coordinate with other local/municipal, state and federal authorities.

 

2014/2015 Goals and Objectives

• Continue to participate as a task force member for the St. Lucie Nuclear Radiological Preparedness Program.
• Prepare and participate in an evaluated nuclear exercise with County, State, and Federal agencies.
• Participate as peer evaluator and controller for Florida nuclear power plants radiological exercises
• Create and update County plans and procedures to comply with the new Radiological Emergency Program requirements.
• Coordinate and participate in radiological emergency training for emergency workers and first responders.
• Inventory, calibrate and maintain radiological equipment assigned to the County.
• Participate as member of the Florida Radiological Emergency Preparedness Continuity Working Group.