Balance
The estimates for deaths due to coal-burning every year run from 24,000 to 30,000. It's the largest source of mercury pollution., and spits CO2 and nitrous oxides into the air. The solid wastes, hundreds of times more likely to end up in the environment, are contaminated with heavy metals, carcinogens, and yes, some radioactive material.
How much energy is used just to transport coal to power plants and waste away?
Weigh this against the irrational fears.