The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), has recommended that all nuclear power plants, non-power reactors, nuclear fuel facilities and gaseous diffusion plants go to the highest level of security as a precautionary measure in response to the attacks in New York City and Washington, D.C.
Hijacked planes crashed into major U.S. landmarks yesterday, destroying New York''s twin towers and plunging the Pentagon into flames in what President George W. Bush has called a "terrorist attack."
Details of the heightened security are classified.
"While there has been no credible general or specific threats to any of these facilities, the recommendation was considered prudent, given the acts of terrorism in New York City and, in Washington, D.C.," an NRC statement said.
There are 103 nuclear reactors located in 31 states across the country.
Nuclear power provides approximately 20 percent of the U.S. electricity supplies.
Progress Energy President and CEO Bill Cavanaugh, said in a statement, that all of Progress Energy''s nuclear plants are under heightened security at this time.
"As always, safety is our top priority," said Cavanaugh. "The public should rest assured that Progress Energy is coordinating with federal authorities and is taking every step necessary to ensure safety and security at all of our facilities."
Meanwhile, the Department of Energy (DOE) has ordered the highest state of security readiness at its nuclear weapons laboratories.
by Virginia Foran