Should an ATOMIC BOMB explode in the vicinity: How to escape? Where to shelter?

OHMYGOSSIP – OHMYGOSSIP has compiled a synopsis for our readers – with the help of scientists and experts – about advisable action in the event of explosion of a nuclear bomb in the region. When you notice a sudden intense flash of light that can possibly blind your eyes, it is likely that an atomic bomb just exploded, this is in case its epicenter was within the range of 50 miles (80,5 km). Once you can look around again and unless you are feeling excessively calm, you may conclude that you are still alive.

Additional signs of explosion would be first to third degree burns, this is in case its epicenter was within the range of 16 kilometers. The trademark of the nuclear bomb is, as you may know, the mushroom-shaped cloud in the sky.

As soon as you have figured out what is going on, you should search for shelter to hide from radioactive dust. Try to find an edifice with thick walls, the thicker the walls the better.
For example: most suitable are buildings with thick concrete or brick walls and no windows, or underground shelters such as basements and cellars.

Hiding in that kind of places it is likely that the amount of received radiation is 0,5% or 1/200 from the radiation outside. The best option would be a bomb shelter, however that would not always be at hand.

Wooden constructions such as rack houses in modern residential areas do not guarantee significant protection from radiation. If you know a nearby building that would do and it will take you less than five minutes to make it there, it is worth the risk. Should it take already 15 minutes outside to reach the destination, then remain where you are for the next hour and then move to a better spot. This precaution is because the fall of radioactive dust will remarkably diminish by that time.

Once you are in a building with thick walls, make sure to keep away from doors and windows. If possible, take a shower or simply wipe the exposed skin with a wet towel, also uickly take off the contaminated clothes. Put the clothes in a plastic bag, close the bag and take it as far from where you yourself are as possible. While in a shower, use shampoo and soap, but do not rub or scratch the skin. Also, do not use conditioner, since it will glue the radioactive particles to your hair. When finished with the shower, also blow your nose and brush the eyebrows, eyelashes and ears, to remove as much of the remaining radioactive grime as possible.

Note that you should drink only bottled water and eat food from undisclosed containers, until the rescue team reaches you. As you wait there, you can listen to the radio in  order to learn about the relevant events and perspective of finding help.

Photo: OHMYGOSSIP

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