New warning system for steam power plants

EYEWITNESS NEWS (WBRE/WYOU) – Many people in our area are familiar with the sirens that sound for testing and alarm purposes at the Susquehanna Steam Electric Plant in the Berwick area.

The time for change has come. FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security are proposing replacing sirens with cell phone alarms.

Officials conducted a test on Thursday and Friday and released the idea for public comment. With a meeting at the Talen Energy East Mountain Business Center in Plains Township.

“We have received a notice change request for the Susquehanna Steam Electric Station from the PA Emergency Management Agency. The proposed new system would require FEMA to integrate the public alert system and emergency notifications. We are seeing a moderation of alarm systems across the country,” said Thomas Scardino of FEMA.

If it passes, the new siren-free system will come online in October.

If you missed the meeting, you still have time to express your opinion. Email Thomas at [email protected] or contact him by phone at 215-931-5546.