There’s no such thing as being too prepared.

KI (the chemical name for potassium iodide) is a salt of stable (not radioactive) iodine. It is an essential nutrient needed in small quantities for the thyroid gland to function properly. KI comes in tablet form and can be easily swallowed.

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) is the federal agency that monitors the safe operation of nuclear stations. It now requires all homes and businesses within 10 km of a nuclear station to receive a supply of KI pills.

The effectiveness of KI as a specific blocker of thyroid radioiodine uptake is well established. When taken in the recommended dose and at the right time, KI is effective in reducing the risk of thyroid cancer in individuals or populations at risk of inhalation or ingestion of radioiodines. KI fills up the thyroid with nonradioactive iodine and prevents the uptake of the radioactive molecules. KI does not protect against other types of radiation.

In the very unlikely event of an emergency that results in a release of radiation to the public, the Chief Medical Officer of Health for Ontario will provide instructions through radio, TV, Internet and other available channels on where, when, how, and by whom KI should be taken. It is important to wait for this notification.

Do not take the pills unless instructed to do so. You would only need to take the pills for a short period of time, likely 1 – 2 days.

If necessary, and for younger children, tablets can be crushed in food or dissolved in fluids.

In case of overdose, get medical help or call a Poison Control Centre immediately. Phone 1-800-268-9017 or 416-813-5900

The risk of side effects from taking a dose of KI is extremely low for all age groups who have normal thyroid function. The overall benefit during a nuclear emergency outweighs the risk of side effects.

There is an increased risk of side effects for people with thyroid disorders i.e., auto-immune thyroiditis, Graves’ disease, iodine deficiency and nodular goiter. These disorders are more common in adults and the elderly, and are rare in children.

Rare side effects in other parts of the body, such as gastrointestinal effects or hypersensitivity reaction, may occur but are generally mild.

People who are sensitive to iodine, have an existing or previous thyroid disorder, or have any other concerns, should consult their doctor or nurse practitioner prior to taking KI.

The package will include 20 KI pills, enough for five adults or 10 children, or any combination for two days. This would be more than enough time for the duration of any exposure in an unlikely nuclear event. The package will also contain a booklet of information on KI pills and usage. If you require more than 20 tablets, there will be instructions on how to order more.

To order KI pills please use our online order form.

When stored in a dry location between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius, the KI pills are effective for up to 12 years.

To order more KI pills please use our online order form.

Each adult in the household should have 4 pills available, and each child should have 2 pills available. This is enough for 2 days supply.

KI tablets will be available to the public at evacuation reception centres, and other locations designated by emergency officials.

Sirens, radio, television, internet, automated telephone call and social media.

What do I do?

1. Go inside and turn on your radio or television for instructions
2. Listen to the media reports
3. Follow instructions provided by government officials
4. Follow instructions for: evacuation, sheltering in place, taking KI pills, reporting to a reception centre for monitoring

No. In the very unlikely event of a radioactive release, it would take many hours and days to unfold. There would be time to respond to emergency instructions.

Potassium iodide (KI) tablets are not for pets and protect the thyroid gland of humans only. Please consult with your local veterinarian if you have any questions regarding your pet and KI tablets.

If you have any questions or concerns, please visit www.preparetobesafe.ca. If you want to know more about this KI distribution program in Durham Region, please call 1-800-841-2729; in Toronto you may call 311.

If you have any health questions related to KI pills, please discuss it with your health provider or you can contact Telehealth Ontario at 1‑866‑797‑0000.

For more information, please visit:

• The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission website
• The Ontario Ministry of Health / Ministry of Long-Term Care website