NUCLEAR DISASTERS

The potential danger from an accident at a nuclear power plant is exposure to radiation. This exposure could come from the release of radioactive material from the plant into the environment, usually characterized by a plume (cloud-like formation) of radioactive gases and particles. The major hazards to people in the vicinity of the plume are radiation exposure to the body from the cloud and particles deposited on the ground, inhalation of radioactive materials, and ingestion of radioactive materials.

A nuclear blast is an explosion with intense light and heat, a damaging pressure wave, and widespread radioactive material that can contaminate the air, water, and ground surfaces for miles around. All nuclear devices cause deadly effects when exploded, including blinding light, intense heat (thermal radiation), initial nuclear radiation, blast, fires started by the heat pulse, and secondary fires caused by the destruction.
Even if individuals are not close enough to the nuclear blast to be affected by the direct impacts, they may be affected by radioactive fallout. Fallout from a nuclear explosion may be carried by wind currents for hundreds of miles if the right conditions exist. This fallout material decays over a long period of time, and is the main source of residual nuclear radiation.

Before:
* Obtain public emergency information materials from the power company that
operates your local nuclear power plant or your local emergency services office.
* Find out from officials if any public buildings in your community have been
designated as fallout shelters. If none have been designated, make your own list of
potential shelters near your home, workplace, and school. These places would include
basements or the windowless center area of middle floors in high-rise buildings, as
well as subways and tunnels.
* Have at least a two week supply of food, water, medical, and other supplies so you can
remain indoors.

During:
* Take shelter as soon as you can, even if you are many miles from ground zero where
the attack occurred - radioactive fallout can be carried by the winds for hundreds of
miles. Remember the three protective factors: Distance, shielding, and time.
* If you are told to evacuate: Keep car windows and vents closed; use re-circulating
air.
If you are instructed to shelter in place:
* Turn off the air conditioner, ventilation fans, furnace, and other air
intakes.
* Go to a basement or other underground area, if possible.
* Do not use the telephone unless absolutely necessary.
* Keep food in covered containers or in the refrigerator. Food not previously
covered should be washed before being put in to containers.
If you suspect you have been exposed to nuclear radiation:
* Change clothes and shoes. Put exposed clothing in a sealed plastic bag and
place it out of the way.
* Take a thorough shower, shampooing your hair.

After:
* Keep listening to the radio and television for news about what to do, where to go, and
places to avoid.

Stay away from damaged areas. Stay away from areas marked “radiation hazard” or “HAZMAT.” Remember that radiation cannot be seen, smelled, or otherwise detected by human senses.