Radiation emergencies might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, but being ready for them is a real-world necessity. Whether it’s a nuclear power plant accident, a transportation mishap involving radioactive materials, or even the unimaginable—a nuclear explosion—knowing what to do can make a big difference for your safety and peace of mind.
Radiation emergencies can occur in various ways and with varying degrees of risk. The worst is a nuclear explosion, with a devastating blast and radioactive fallout—small, sandy particles that can travel miles. Other accidents may occur at nuclear plants or through exposure while receiving medical or research treatment. Whichever the cause, the actions to safeguard yourself are not so difficult and complex after all.
The essential rules of radiation safety reduce to three: time, distance, and shielding. Spend minimal time close to the radiation source, place as much distance between yourself and the hazard as possible, and employ dense materials—such as brick or concrete walls—to block. Should you ever receive a warning regarding radiation, simply remember this: get inside, stay inside, and tune in.
Being prepared is one of the best things you can do. Have more than one method of receiving emergency alerts, such as a battery radio or a reliable app. Assemble an emergency kit with essentials: food, water, medication, clean clothing for each member, and a trash bag for holding contaminated clothing. It’s also a good idea to have a family plan—know where you will meet if you get separated and who you will call out of state.
If there is a radiation emergency, don’t hesitate—get inside the nearest sturdy building, away from windows, and try to get as many walls between you and the outside as possible. Basements and the middle of big buildings are generally safest. Once you’re indoors, shut it down: close doors, windows, and fireplace dampers, and turn off anything that introduces outdoor air. Remain indoors at least 24 hours unless instructed otherwise by authorities or another imminent hazard, such as fire or gas leak.
Once it’s safe to do so, it’s time to clean up. If you were outdoors or suspect you could have gotten exposure, slowly remove your outer layer of clothing—this can eliminate up to 90% of radioactive contamination. Handle gently to avoid distributing any dust. Wash your skin with soap and water, or with a clean, wet washcloth if you can’t shower. Avoid using the household wipes and hand sanitizer—they won’t help against radiation. And don’t neglect your pets—if they were outdoors, they will need to be bathed and brushed as well.
Food and water safety are extremely crucial. Bottled water is best because boiling tap water will not eliminate radioactive content. Sealed container drinks, or anything that was stored in your fridge or freezer, are usually safe—just clean off the outside before opening them. You can use tap water to clean yourself, but don’t ingest it unless authorities indicate it is safe and you have no alternative. When it comes to food, any that was stored indoors or in sealed containers is safe, but stay away from anything that was left out uncovered outside.
Take your usual medication. If your medication was kept indoors or in a sealed container that you’ve disinfected, you can still use it.
Now, let’s dispel some myths about potassium iodide, or KI. It’s commonly discussed in the case of a nuclear crisis, but it’s not a panacea. Quoting the CDC, “Potassium iodide (KI) is a form of iodine that is not radioactive. It can be taken to block one form of radioactive material, radioactive iodine, from being absorbed by the thyroid.” KI protects only your thyroid and only from radioactive iodine, which is most relevant in nuclear power plant accidents, not nuclear bombs. It won’t shield the rest of your body or take care of other radioactive substances. And timing is critical—KI is most effective if taken shortly before or immediately after exposure. It’s chiefly advised for individuals less than 40 and pregnant or breastfeeding women, and only if public health officials recommend it. It’s taking KI when you don’t need it, particularly if you have thyroid disease or are iodine-sensitive. And don’t try to substitute it with table salt or iodine supplements—they won’t do any good and might be hazardous.
It’s okay to feel stressed or panicked after a radiation emergency. Experiencing something like that can be traumatic, so don’t forget about your mental health as well. Discuss it with someone you trust, and let yourself remember that you’re not alone going through it. Being prepared, staying calm, and having a plan is your best protection—no superhero cape needed.
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