A nuclear blast is an explosion with intense light and heat, a damaging pressure wave and widespread radioactive material that can contaminate the air, water and ground surfaces for miles around. During a nuclear incident, it is important to avoid radioactive material, if possible. While experts may predict at this time that a nuclear attack is less likely than other types, terrorism by its nature is unpredictable.

If there is advanced warning of an attack

Take cover immediately, as far below ground as possible, though any shield or shelter will help protect you from the immediate effects of the blast and the pressure wave.

If there is no warning

1. Quickly assess the situation.
2. Consider if you can get out of the area or if it would be better to go inside a building to limit the amount of radioactive material you are exposed to.
3. If you take shelter go as far below ground as possible, close windows and doors, turn off air conditioners, heaters or other ventilation systems. Stay where you are, watch TV, listen to the radio, or check the Internet for official news as it becomes available.
4. To limit the amount of radiation you are exposed to, think about shielding, distance and time.
   • Shielding: If you have a thick shield between yourself and the radioactive materials more of the radiation will be absorbed, and you will be exposed to less.  The more heavy, dense materials between you and the source of radiation, the better.  This is why local officials could advise you to remain indoors if an accident occurs.  In some cases, the walls in your home or workplace would provide sufficient shielding to protect you for a short period of time.  Shielding will not prevent Radioactive Iodine (131-1), usually in the form of a gas or particle, from reaching and damaging you Thyroid, however.
   • Distance: The farther away you are away from the blast and the fallout the lower your exposure.
   • Time: Minimizing time spent exposed will also reduce your risk.  In a serious power plant accident, local officials will call for evacuations to increase the distance between you and the radiation.
   • Prophylaxis:  In any nuclear event there is a release of cancer-causing Radioactive Iodine (131-1), which will damage the Thyroid.  Saturating the Thyroid with a Thyroid blocker will prevent this damage.  There are two forms of stable iodine blocker:  Potassium Iodate (kio3) and Potassium Iodide (ki).

Use available information to assess the situation. If there is a significant radiation threat, health care authorities may or may not advise you to take potassium iodide. Potassium iodide is the same stuff added to your table salt to make it iodized. It may or may not protect your thyroid gland, which is particularly vulnerable, from radioactive iodine exposure. Plan to speak with your health care provider in advance about what makes sense for your family.

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