Example of a Lifesaving Message that Could be Broadcast Immediately After an Improvised Nuclear Detonation

• A nuclear explosion has occurred at [location] in [city].
• Potentially deadly radiation will be in the air right after a nuclear explosion.
• If you are in the [defined location] area, get inside a building immediately.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a protective layer-like a cloth or a towel to reduce the amount of potentially harmful particles you breathe.
• You can survive a nuclear explosion by taking the following steps:
  • Get inside:
    • If you are anywhere in the [location] area, get inside a building as quickly as possible.
    • If a multistory building or a basement can be safely reached within a few minutes of the explosion, go there immediately.
    • The safest buildings have brick or concrete walls.
    • Close all windows and doors and go to a basement or to the center of the building, away from windows and outer walls.
    • If you are in a car, find a building immediately and get inside. Cars will not protect you from radiation.
  • Stay inside:
    • Inside a building or in an underground area is the best place for you and your loved ones after a nuclear explosion.
    • Plan to stay inside for at least 12 to 24 hours or until you are instructed to leave by authorities or emergency responders. The most dangerous radiation levels will decrease significantly during this time.
    • Do not leave your building to get children and adults. Children and adults in schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and daycare facilities will be cared for at the facility and will not be released to go outside. Going outside to get your loved ones will expose you and them to extremely dangerous radiation.
  • Stay tuned:
    • The Emergency Alert System will broadcast important safety messages over cell phone, radio, television, and the internet.
    • Instructions will be updated as more information is available.
• These steps to protect you and your family are the same for your pets and animals.
• Again, get inside, stay inside, and stay tuned for more information. Following these steps can save your life.

Note:

• These instructions are adapted from Coleman et al. Medical Planning and Response for a Nuclear Detonation: a Practical Guide, Biosecurity and Bioterrorism: Biodefense Strategy, Practice, and Science 2012; 10(4):346-371. See Figure 10.
• This example is only a potential template.
• Senior managers of an incident will customize the exact message as appropriate for the incident specifics and venue.
• See CDC public message on this topic.