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Radiation Emergencies

There are different types of radiation emergencies that vary in how much damage they cause and harm they pose to the public.  Some examples of radiation emergencies include:

  • A nuclear detonation (explosion) or intentional dispersal of radioactive material
  • An accident at a nuclear power plant
  • A transportation accident involving a shipment of radioactive materials
  • An occupational exposure like in a healthcare or research setting.

While each of these events is extremely unlikely, you can keep your family safe by knowing what to do if an incident occurs.  The steps to protect yourself from radiation are the same, regardless of what type of radiation emergency occurs:

GET INSIDE - STAY INSIDE - STAY TUNED 

During any radiation emergency, follow the radiation protection principles of time, distance, and shielding. Limit your time exposed to radiation, stay as far away as possible from a radioactive source, and shield yourself from radiation by going deep inside a sturdy building.

GET INSIDE:  If warned of the possibility of a radiation hazard, immediately get inside the nearest building and move away from windows. Put as many walls between you and the outside to protect you from the radiation outside.

STAY INSIDE: Take shelter unless told otherwise. If possible, turn off fans, air conditioners, and forced-air heating units that bring air in from the outside. Close windows and doors. Close fireplace dampers. If you are instructed to stay inside during a radiation emergency, pets and service animals should be inside too. Sheltering usually lasts at least 24 hours.

STAY TUNED: Follow instructions from emergency response officials. If advised to evacuate, listen for information about routes, shelters, and procedures. If you have evacuated, do not return until you are told it is safe to do so by local authorities.

Infographic showing where to go in a radiation emergency. During radiation emergencies, an interior room or basement offer the best protection. People and pets who are outside or in vehicles should go indoors as soon as possible.

If you were outside during a radiological release or if you think you have radioactive material on your body, there are simple steps to remove it:

  • Remove your outer layer of contaminated clothing to remove radioactive material from your body. Removing your outer layer of clothing can remove up to 90% of radioactive material. Be very careful in removing your clothing to prevent radioactive dust from shaking loose. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, if possible.
  • Get clean. If possible, take a shower or wash with soap and water to remove any radioactive particles from skin or hair that was not covered. If you cannot wash, use a wipe or clean wet cloth to wipe any skin or hair that was not covered.
  • Clean any pets that were outside after the radioactive dust arrived. Gently brush your pet’s coat to remove any radioactive particles and wash your pet with soap and water, if available.

Following the basic pillars of emergency preparedness will help your family be prepared for any emergency, including a radiation incident.

  • Build a Kit: After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Learn about the different supplies that should be in your emergency supply kit.
  • Make a Plan: Does your family know who to call, where to meet, and what to take if you have to leave your home, or if you cannot safely return home?
  • Stay Informed: Learn how to receive alerts about hazardous weather or developing emergency situations, and sign up for PWC Alerts.

For additional information about radiation emergencies, visit https://www.ready.gov/radiation