FEMA To Evaluate Readiness Of Virginia 

Emergency preparedness exercise scheduled for North Anna Power Station

The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency will evaluate a Biennial Emergency Preparedness Exercise at the North Anna Power Station.  The week-long exercise, which will begin on July 19, will test the ability of the Commonwealth of Virginia to respond to an emergency at the nuclear facility.

These drills are held every other year to test government's ability to protect public health and safety.  FEMA will evaluate state and local emergency response capabilities within the 10-mile emergency-planning zone of the nuclear facility.

Within 90 days, FEMA will send its evaluation to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for use in licensing decisions.  The final report will be available to the public about 120 days after the exercise.

FEMA will present preliminary findings of the exercise in a public meeting at 11:00 a.m. on July 23, at the Richmond Marriott West, 4240 Dominion Boulevard, Glen Allen, Va. 23060.  Speakers include representatives from FEMA, NRC, and the Commonwealth of Virginia.