State and local radiation officials will hold a press conference on March 16, 2011, at 11:00 am at Portland Fire & Rescue's Training Center located at 4800 NE 122nd Avenue in Portland. Media is invited to attend.

A panel of experts will be on hand to address questions and concerns about radiation-related health risks to Oregonians stemming from Japan's earthquake and compromised nuclear facilities. Information will be provided on measures that public health officials are taking to monitor air quality for radiation levels resulting from the disaster, as well as how the participating agencies are and will continue to work together to protect the health and safety of Oregonians.

Participating officials include: David Howe and Daryl Leon (Radiation Protective Services), Grant Coffey (Portland Fire & Rescue HazMat Coordinator), Dr. Jon Jui (Multnomah County Health Department), Steven Franz (Reed College), Scott Winegar (Portland Office of Emergency Management), and Lt. Richard Hosmer (Civil Support Team/Military).

Prior to the press conference, participating officials will produce an inter-agency video regarding Japan's radiation incident, the radiation response capabilities of Oregon's emergency responders, an in-depth analysis of the Japan vs. Chernobyl radiation incidents, and public health and safety information. This video will be made available after the press conference.

   Portland Fire & Rescue 

   We Respond: Always Ready, Always There

   March 15, 2011

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