By Staff
National Guard helps protect nuclear plant
Thomas Tingle
Record Managing Editor
While security measures have tightened at Redstone Arsenal here in Madison County, Gov. Bob Riley has initiated the deployment of National Guard troops to neighboring Browns Ferry Nuclear Power Plant in Limestone County.
Craig Beasley, spokesperson for Browns Ferry, said TVA officials did not request the governor's action, but the move is greatly appreciated.
"We already have our security measures put into place here at Browns Ferry, but the action taken by the governor will help offset our security force at the plant," Beasley said. "We already have armed and trained security personnel here. We don't know how long the National Guard will be here."
Since 9/11, added security measures at Browns Ferry were put into action.
"We increased the patrol around the plant, extended the security perimeter, limited the access into the plant, and put all vehicles coming into the plant subject to random and full inspections," Beasley said. "Our communications with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies was enhanced."
Approximately 950 people are employed at Browns Ferry operating Units 1 and 2 at the nuclear facility. An additional 1,000 people are involved in the re-start of Unit 1.
"If the threat level changes and goes higher, Browns Ferry will remain operational and we will continue to make sure our employees are protected," Beasley said.
Last week, Homeland Security Director Tom Ridge confirmed a possible terrorist threat at the Palo Verde Nuclear Power Plant in Arizona. National Guard troops are watching that facility.