I was about 11 years old when the meltdown occurred.  We lived roughly about 45 miles from the plant, in Jefferson PA.

I can remember watching the newscast. I honestly didn’t understand the magnitude of what was happening, but I knew it was bad.

to this day I always keep a packed bag ready to go in an emergency.

Authorities started evacuating people in 5 mile increments. My parents kept talking, as my mom packed our bags. I can remember my dad at the kitchen table, with a PA map laid out, using a compass to draw circles on the map in 5 mile increments as each were evacuated. We were lucky enough never to have to leave.

I can honestly say this experience changed me. It turned me into a prepper, and to this day I always keep a packed bag ready to go in an emergency.

Don