Radiological and nuclear emergencies – Get Prepared
Radiological or nuclear emergencies are unlikely because of the strict controls in place for the movement and use of radioactive materials and nuclear energy. However, international events have shown the significant impacts a nuclear emergency can have on people and the environment.
How to prepare before a radiological or nuclear emergency
In many ways, preparing for a radiological or nuclear emergency is similar to other emergencies.
- Make a household emergency plan. Consider the specific needs of all members of your household, including older adults, children, pets, and anyone with special health needs
- Prepare your emergency kit. Learn more about what items to put in your kit, including quick and easy steps you can take right away at no cost
- Unless you live near a nuclear power plant, there is no need to include potassium iodide (KI) in your emergency kit
- In addition to the items in a typical emergency kit, plastic sheeting and tape is recommended to create an airtight seal around windows and doors to prevent radioactive material from entering your home
During a radiological or nuclear emergency
Go inside, listen for information, follow instructions
- GO inside your house and turn on your radio, television or computer
- If you were outside around the time your local authorities declared a radiological or nuclear emergency, remove your clothes as soon as possible and seal them in a plastic bag. Rinse your hair and body in the shower and then put on clean clothes from a closed drawer or closet
- LISTEN to media reports
- FOLLOW instructions provided by the local authorities
If you are instructed to shelter-in-place
- Minimize the amount of outside air entering your home
- Close all doors and windows
- Turn off fans, air conditioners, and forced-air heating units that bring air in from outside
- Turn off appliances and stay indoors and away from windows and outside walls until advised otherwise
If you are instructed to take potassium iodide (KI) pills
- You should only take potassium iodide (KI) pills if directly instructed to do so by public health authorities. KI pills are only helpful in specific situations and timeframes and can be harmful if used incorrectly
If you are instructed to evacuate
- Bring your emergency kit
- Listen to officials for information about routes, shelters, and procedures
- Once you have evacuated, do not return until you are told it is safe to do so
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