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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.