A large percentage of electricity goes into maintaining and cooling the spent fuel rods in a nuclear power plant installation. A prime example is a Nuclear Facility that may have one working (running) reactor and two that are shut down with spent fuel rods. This is not uncommon to find. Now, follow the reasoning: when the primary power shuts down and the backup is rendered inoperable, how is coolant water to be pumped to cool the spent fuel rods?
We saw what happened with Fukushima [3], and most of us remember the horror story that almost emerged with Three Mile Island nuclear power facility in Harrisburg, PA. The reason this is being mentioned here is that these things need to be taken into account with regard to your preparations. What good is it to make it through the initial nuclear attack when the attack renders your nearest nuclear power facility a ticking time bomb regarding spent fuel rods?
I strongly recommend reading Cresson Kearney’s materials (downloadable for free) on Nuclear War Survival. You will learn about doses and dosimeters, rads and fallout. You will receive the plans on how to construct your own Kearney Fallout Meter from household materials. The series contains a wealth of information that you can burn off…information that may save your life.
Advanced Tactical Gas Mask – Are You Ready for a Biological, Nuclear or Chemical Attack? [4]
There was an interesting movie entitled “Olympus Has Fallen [5]” starring Gerald Butler. The premise revolved around terrorists wishing to turn the tables and utilize all of the US nuclear sites against itself…missiles, reactors, and what not. This is not far-fetched. A good thing to research would be the proximity of the nuclear sites to your home. This photo comes from the International Nuclear Safety Center, and I think it substantiates my concerns.
You may wish to consider a good fallout meter (also known as a radiological survey meter, or Geiger counter), along with dosimeters and other cumulative radiation monitors. The Nukalert monitor will actually let out a “chirping” noise when you come into a nuclear-irradiated area. There are also hazmat suits/NBC suits that you may purchase. As in all dangers and disasters, there are a certain amount of things that are out of your control; however, there are also many things you can do to prepare for them. Research and planning is crucial in your preparations, and I highly recommend studying your area for as much information as you can find regarding this important topic. Have a good day, and keep up the good work!
JJ