Radiation Emergency: What to Do

1. Go In and Stay In

• Seek shelter immediately inside a sturdy building, preferably brick, concrete, or stone.
• Choose the center of the building or basement, away from exterior walls and windows.
• Close all doors, windows, and ventilation to reduce exposure.
• Stay indoors for at least 24–48 hours or as instructed by authorities.
• Avoid using fans, air conditioning, or opening vents that bring outside air in.

2. Tune In

• Use battery-powered or hand-crank radios to get official updates and instructions.
• Follow all advice from emergency services and local authorities carefully.

3. Self-Decontamination

• Remove outer clothing and seal it in a plastic bag to remove most contamination.
• Wash exposed skin and hair thoroughly with soap and water; avoid conditioner.
• Brush and wash pets if they were outside; keep them indoors during the emergency.

4. Food and Water Safety

• Use stored food, drink, and medicines already in your shelter.
• Tap water is usually safe for several days; avoid private wells or rainwater until declared safe.
• Follow official guidance on food and water safety during and after the emergency.

5. Evacuation

• Evacuate only if instructed by authorities.
• Use designated evacuation routes and register at reception centers.
• Avoid self-evacuation to prevent exposure to hazardous radiation levels.

Radiation Emergency Quick Checklist

• Get inside immediately—preferably to a basement or center of a building.
• Close and seal doors, windows, and ventilation.
• Stay indoors for 24–48 hours or as advised.
• Remove outer clothing and wash skin thoroughly.
• Listen to official updates on radio or internet.
• Use stored food and tap water only; avoid private sources unless confirmed safe.
• Evacuate only if told to do so by authorities.
• Keep pets indoors and wash if exposed.