Geiger counters sold out
Geiger counters have sold out across Austria, according to radio reports.The detector, which establishes the amount of nuclear radiation, is not available anymore at the countrys leading electronic appliance stores. A spokesman for a firm said today (Tues) demand for the product has been “incredible” since last weeks earthquake in Japan.Several detonations occurred at a nuclear power station in the Asian country after the natural disaster. Tens of thousands of people are missing after tsunami waves caused substantial damage in various regions of Japan.Prices for Geiger counters start at 300 Euros. News that shops ran out of the device comes on the heels of a survey showing that a vast majority of Austrians are scared by the possible effects of the occurrences in Japan.Klagenfurt-based public opinion agency Humaninstitut found that 81 per cent of Austrians are frightened of the consequences the detonations at the Fukushima nuclear power plant may have. The research group interviewed 850 adult Austrians.Peoples Party (ÖVP) Environment Minister Nikolaus Berlakovich said yesterday Austria was “safe” from potential radiation caused by the explosions due to the large distance. He added that many Austrians were “of course unsettled” by what has happened.