Palo Verde Nuclear Emergency

• In extreme emergencies, citizens who are in danger should call 9-1-1.
• For an updated status of the emergency, call the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station at (623) 393-5000 or the Maricopa County Dept. of Emergency Management, (602) 273-1411
• For shelter information, call the American Red Cross, (602) 336-6660

What is Radiation?

Radiation is a form of energy that is released in the form of tiny particles or waves. Radiation accidentally released into the environment can be dangerous because of the harmful effects of certain types of radiation on the body. The longer a person is exposed to radiation and the closer the person is, the greater the risk.

How will Citizens be Notified 

In the event of an emergency, citizens will be notified by the Siren Alerting System within the 10-mile area around the plant. The siren will sound for approximately three minutes with a steady high-pitched sound.

If the Siren Sounds

If the siren sounds, citizens should go indoors immediately and turn on their radio to KTAR (620 AM), KKLT (98.7 FM) or local television stations. Instructions from state and county officials will be broadcast by the media. Hearing a siren or tone alert does not mean citizens should evacuate.

911 should be called only in extreme emergency situations. Numbers and information will be provided to the public in the event of a nuclear power plant emergency.

In a nuclear power plant emergency, citizens may be advised to go indoors and close all windows, doors, chimney dampers, other sources of outside air, and turn off forced air heating and cooling equipment.

If Advised to Remain at Home

• Bring pets inside
• Close and lock windows and doors
• Turn off air conditioning, vents, fans and furnace
• Close fireplace dampers
• Go to the basement or other underground area
• Stay inside until authorities say it is safe
• Use the phone only in emergency.

When Coming in From Outdoors

• Shower and change clothing and shoes.
• Put items worn outdoors in a plastic bag and seal it.

If Evacuation is Advised

Depending on the nature of the accident and weather conditions, evacuations might only affect certain sectors. If an evacuation is ordered while school is in session, your children will be taken to a Reception and Care Center. Parents will be notified by government officials as to their location.

• Stay calm and do not rush.
• Gather personal items you or your family might need.
• Follow the evacuation routes provided. If you need a place to stay, shelter information will be provided.
• Keep car windows and vents closed and drive safely to the shelter location advised by authorities.