The world changed when we saw the brutality of the Russian invaders in Ukraine. If you had asked anyone ten years ago about the possibility of nuclear weapons being used, people would have laughed in your face and thought you were nuts. Now, more and more people, especially in Ukraine and Europe, are beginning to learn how to protect themselves from the consequences of a possible nuclear disaster.
Let’s hope no one needs this information, but knowledge is power, so here’s what you do.
First things first
1) If you are indoors, stay there. If not, hide it quickly. Radioactive material settles on walls, ceilings and floors. Try to communicate with the outside world as much as possible.
2) If you have pets, keep them inside. Don’t let them frolic in the radioactive meadow.
3) Close doors and windows and cover all cracks with a damp cloth.
4) Make sure you have a supply of food for several days. Seal everything in airtight bags and hide in the fridge or in a cool place.
5) Prepare a respirator, mask or cotton gauze bandage to protect the lungs.
6) Wait for further instructions from the state emergency service, law enforcement officials or other authorities. Don’t go outside unless you really have no choice.
Basic instructions for protection against radiation
If you decide to go out for a while (evacuation, medical assistance), remember these rules:
1) Wear respirator, raincoat, rubber boots and gloves.
2) Do not take off your clothes on the street, do not touch the ground, grass, bushes, trees and whatever you do – do not swim or wash in water outside.
3) After returning home, carefully remove the outer layer of clothing to avoid stirring up radioactive dust. Place the clothing in an airtight bag or container and keep it as far away from people and animals as possible.
4) If possible, take a shower with soap and wash your head. Use shampoo but not conditioner. Do not rub or scratch the skin.
5) If showering is not an option, use running water to wash all exposed areas of skin, especially your face, eyes and ears. Wet wipes or cloths will also do in a pinch.
6) Now that you are clean, wear clean clothes.
What to eat and drink in case of radiation accident?
It is worth remembering that not all food is safe during a nuclear disaster.
1) Drink only clean water. Tapping is illegal, but if you find a clean, uncontaminated well, be sure to fill your bottles.
2) Boiling does not remove radiation, so you should always provide potable water. Since any water in a container is not exposed to radiation, it will do.
3) Food is safer if it is hermetically sealed in a jar or other container. You can take food out of the freezer or refrigerator, so it’s not a bad idea to stock up on some high-nutrition snacks. Oh, and before opening the package, wipe it down with a damp cloth or towel. Then, stick the cloth in a plastic bag and keep it out of reach.
