KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - Answering questions and addressing common misconceptions about the health impacts from a dirty bomb explosion, Public Health - Seattle & King County is currently running a "Spotlight on Environmental Health" episode that addresses this new public health concern.

In addition to clarifying the differences between a dirty bomb and a nuclear device, the new TV show also discusses how government would respond in the case of a dirty bomb explosion and what residents can do to prepare themselves for this or other hazardous material incidents.

"Education is preparation, and learning the facts about dirty bombs will make our community that much more able to respond effectively should such an unlikely event occur," said King County Executive Ron Sims. "I encourage King County residents to tune in and learn about the critical role they can play in our community preparedness efforts." Viewer interest in this topic may increase right now as Seattle and King County prepare to participate next week in the federal anti-terrorism exercise called TOPOFF 2.

"Dirty bombs are a terrorist's way to cause fear and panic, not fatalities," said Dr. Alonzo Plough, Director of Public Health - Seattle & King County. "While the economic and psychological impact of a dirty bomb may be severe, the radiation from a dirty bomb will harm very few people."

A dirty bomb is a conventional explosive device with radioactive material packed inside. This is very different from a nuclear bomb, which uses a highly sophisticated fission chain reaction. Another name for a dirty bomb is "radiation dispersion device" (RDD).

Guests on the program will include Dr. Plough, as well as a radiation physicist from the Environmental Protection Agency and an emergency planner from Public Health - Seattle & King County.

"Dirty Bombs" will be shown this week on CTV (Channel 22 on Comcast Cable) at the following times:

Friday, May 9th	8:00 p.m.
Saturday, May 10th	8:00 p.m.
Sunday, May 11th	8:00 p.m.

For other times on CTV during the next weeks, please visit www.metrokc.gov/ctv. Additionally, viewers may call 206-296-0300 to request "Spotlight on Environmental Health: Dirty Bombs" during any CTV viewer request time.

Public Health produces "Spotlight on Environmental Health" to address issues related to healthy living and the environment.