Radiation Threat
A radiation threat, commonly referred to as a "dirty bomb," is the use of common explosives to spread radioactive materials over a targeted area.
- The force of the explosion and radioactive contamination will be localized.
- 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.
- Avoid breathing radiological dust that may be released in the air.
If there is a radiation threat
- 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.
