A radiological emergency happens when there is an explosion of a nuclear weapon or an improvised device. The explosion will produce dangerous amounts of intense heat, light, air pressure, and radiation.

People and their surroundings can become exposed to the released radioactive materials. This can be caused by an accident, nature, or terrorism.

If a radiation attack or emergency occurs, it is important for residents to seek shelter immediately. Plan to remain there for an extended period of time. Radiation is extremely dangerous, but walls can often block much of it, and radiation does weaken over time.

If a radiological attack happens, remember to take these important steps:

• 1. If you are outside or in a car, get inside a building and take shelter immediately.
• 2. Decontaminate yourself by removing any materials or clothing that were exposed to radiation.
• 3. Wash yourself off as quickly as possible.

Once you are decontaminated, seek updates from local emergency officials and trusted news sources. Have a battery-powered emergency radio in case phone networks experience disruptions.

Depending on the size and scope of the radiation emergency, communicating with others via cell phone may become difficult. If you have a computer or web-enabled device, use it to communicate with friends, neighbors, and family members.

For more information on how to respond to radiological emergencies, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.

Resource: www.cdc.gov/radiation-emergencies/safety/index.html