As we watch the events in Japan, it is understandable that
people are worried about the potential of nuclear radiation fallout
in our community. The situation there is frightening but there is
currently no threat to the public’s health in Santa Clara
County.
Message from Dr. Marty Fenstersheib, Health Officer, Santa Clara County: As we watch the events in Japan, it is understandable that people are worried about the potential of nuclear radiation fallout in our community. The situation there is frightening but there is currently no threat to the public’s health in Santa Clara County.
While dangerous levels of radiation are leaking from the crippled nuclear plant, the likelihood of harmful levels of radiation making it to the United States remains very low. Although concern is understandable, the problems in Japan do not mean that we are at a higher risk for exposure to radiation.
Because we are about 5,000 miles from Japan, and radiation is dispersed and diluted over distance, it is highly unlikely that any significant level would reach our shores. Even if it makes it this far, it will not be at a high enough level to cause health problems.
It may help to know that both the federal and state governments have radiation detectors located throughout California. One detector is located in San Jose. These detectors constantly monitor for signs of trouble and routinely collect air, precipitation, drinking water, and milk samples for analysis of radioactivity.
The California Department of Public Health is closely monitoring the situation and working with state and federal authorities.
The Santa Clara County Public Health Department is in contact with the State, and the State will let us know if a significant increase in the level of radiation is detected. If that were to happen, the public would be notified immediately, including any precautionary measures that should be taken.
As we all have seen in this tragic event, disasters such as earthquakes can also affect power, food and water supplies. One way that Santa Clara County residents can get emergency and disaster information is through AlertSCC.
Go to www.AlertSCC.com and register today. This system is used locally to provide emergency information and notifications. Everyone with a land line is automatically enrolled. AlertSCC lets residents voluntarily sign up to receive alerts by cell, text and email.
You can also sign up with your cell phone by sending a text message to 32075. You can key in the word “AlertSCC” and your street name and zip code. You will receive a confirmation message.
