DOTHAN, Ala., Aug. 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Joseph M. Farley Nuclear Plant declared an alert on unit 1 at 5:20 a.m. CT due to the release of carbon dioxide within the plant.

Carbon dioxide is an agent routinely used to mitigate fire hazards, however there was no indication of a fire on site. The carbon dioxide release has been isolated.

All site personnel have been accounted for and there are no accidents or injuries reported.

An alert is the second least serious of four nuclear plant emergency classifications assigned by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. There is no danger to the public. Appropriate federal, state and local officials have been notified.

Units 1 and 2 continue to operate at 100 percent power. There is no release of radiation in progress associated with this event.

Additional details will be announced as they become available.  Members of the public should stay tuned to their radio and television for the latest information.  Information is also available by calling 1-800-367-4020 and at the Alabama Power Web site at www.alabamapower.com.

Plant Farley, a two-unit electric generating plant located near Dothan, Ala., is owned by Alabama Power Company and operated by Southern Nuclear Operating Company. Both are subsidiaries of Southern Company.

SOURCE Alabama Power Company