A radiation threat, commonly referred
to as a "dirty bomb" or "radiological dispersion device (RDD)", is
the use of common explosives to spread radioactive materials over
a targeted area. It is not a nuclear blast. The force of the explosion
and radioactive contamination will be more localized. While the blast
will be immediately obvious, the presence of radiation will not be
clearly defined until trained personnel with specialized equipment
are on the scene. As with any radiation, you want to try to limit
exposure. It is important to avoid breathing radiological
dust that may be released in the air.
If There is a Radiation Threat or "Dirty
Bomb"
- If you are outside and there is an explosion or authorities
warn of a radiation release nearby, cover your nose and mouth
and quickly go inside a building that has not been damaged. If
you are already inside check to see if your building has been
damaged. If your building is stable, stay where you are.
Close windows and doors; turn off air conditioners, heaters
or other ventilation systems.
- If you are inside and there is an explosion near where you
are or you are warned of a radiation release inside, cover nose
and mouth and go outside immediately. Look for a building or other
shelter that has not been damaged and quickly get inside.
Once you are inside, close windows and doors; turn off air
conditioners, heaters or other ventilation systems.
- If you think you have been exposed to radiation, take off your
clothes and wash as soon as possible.
- Stay where you are, watch TV, listen to the radio, or check
the Internet for official news as it becomes available.
- Remember: To limit the amount of radiation you are exposed
to, think about time, distance and shielding.
- Time: Minimizing time spent exposed will
also reduce your risk.
- Distance: The farther away you are away
from the blast and the fallout the lower your exposure.
- 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.
As with any emergency, local authorities may not be able to immediately
provide information on what is happening and what you should do.
However, you should watch TV, listen to the radio, or check the
Internet often for official news and information as it becomes available.
For more general information, see "Are
you Ready?" from Federal Emergency
Management Agency.
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