Nuclear bombs are some of the most devastating weapons of mass destruction known to mankind. Learn how to survive a nuclear bomb attack and be prepared for one with this handy how-to guide.
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How to Survive a Nuclear Bomb | A Handy Survival Guide
1. Plan Ahead
As with any other explosion, surviving a nuclear bomb attack happens before it starts. Having a plan allows you to focus on the more important things, like keeping yourself and the people around you safe in the moment.
- Find out the nearest bomb shelters in your area. Your best options are your basement and in the middle of any building.
- Have a checklist of the supplies you need to have on-hand in case of an emergency and a list of numbers to the nearest hospital, fire station, and police station
- Have a plan for evacuation if you live near likely targets of a nuclear bomb like government offices or major ports.
2. Prepare an Emergency Kit
Prepare an emergency kit that contains enough supplies to tide you through at least three days. Your emergency kit should contain the essentials like:
- Copies of important documents
- a battery-operated or hand-cranked radio
- A flashlight
- A basic first aid kit
3. Stock Up on Food and Water
Stock up on non-perishable food that can last you several years, especially foods rich in carbohydrates. Some good options to stock up on include:
- Pasta
- Powdered milk
- Canned goods (preferably ones that you don’t need to use a can opener for)
- Sugar
- Oats
- Honey
If you can afford to, slowly build up your emergency supplies ahead of time so you can leave stock for those who live paycheck to paycheck and buy supplies as they go. Avoid purchasing items bearing the WIC logo if you don’t qualify for the program.
Don’t forget to stock up on water as well. Aim to have one gallon supply, per person, per day.
4. Head for Your Shelter
At the onset of a nuclear bomb attack, take shelter in your basement or any other safe place indoors. Being outside during a nuclear attack not only leaves you vulnerable to the harmful effects of fallout but also exposes you to harmful radiation.
If you’re caught in the blast with your family, stay together as much as possible. Don’t forget to take your pets with you as well.
Buildings or structures made of brick or concrete are the safest places you can take shelter in, so make sure to head for the nearest location made from those materials. Otherwise, better to be indoors rather than out.
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5. Protect Yourself (and Others)
As soon as you go inside,
- Remove any clothing and other objects exposed to the outdoors.
- Wash your hands and any other part of your body that encountered any possible fallout. Don’t touch your eyes, nose, and mouth, and avoid using hand sanitizer or wet wipes to clean yourself.
- Wear a mask if you’re sheltering with people not in your household
If you’re stuck outside when a nuclear bomb detonates, duck and cover under any area that can help you protect yourself and wait for the initial shock to pass. Those in their vehicles should pull over and duck under a safe spot.
Once the initial blast finishes, head for the nearest shelter immediately. If you’re near a danger zone, be prepared to evacuate to the public shelter assigned to your area.
6. Stay Tuned to the News
Tune in to your local news and emergency response alerts for any instructions. Depending on where you are, they may ask you to evacuate to a safer location.
If you are evacuated, don’t return home until the authorities give you the all-clear to go back. Take note of any critical information like the nearest public shelter, what you need to bring there, and any preparation needed.
7. Shelter for At Least 48 Hours
Stay in your shelter for at least 48 hours after the initial blast. Avoid going outside in any circumstance, which can expose you to harmful radiation from the nuclear bomb blast and the resulting fallout.
After the first 48 hours, it’s still best to limit your time outdoors for at least 8-9 more days to increase your chances of surviving a nuclear attack.
Here’s a simulation of a potential nuclear attack from EcuaVoz:
A nuclear bomb attack is one of the most terrifying events one could ever experience. Planning ahead, sheltering in place, and protecting yourself when you do need to go out can increase the odds of coming out of the other side in one piece.
Still, the best way to survive a nuclear bomb is for an attack not to even happen in the first place.
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Have you experienced (and survived) a nuclear bomb attack, or know someone who has? Share your experiences in the comments section below!
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