This is an article by Jeff Semancik, an Article Out Loud from Domestic Preparedness, July 1, 2026. Advanced reactors promise safer nuclear power with smaller emergency planning zones and fewer expected off-site impacts. But emergency planners and responders must still be prepared to handle new hazards introduced by advanced reactor designs. Learn how planners who engage communities early and plan thoroughly will be best positioned to maintain public trust when an incident occurs. Now to the featured article.