The U.S. government’s Department of Homeland Security has an online guide to preparing for the possibility of a nuclear blast, and what to do during if a missile is approaching or strikes nearby.

Their tips include:

  • Make a list of potential fallout shelters near your home, workplace and school, such as basements, subways, tunnels, or the windowless centre area of middle floors in a high-rise building.
  • During periods of heightened threat, ensure your disaster supplies are adequate for up to two weeks.
  • If an attack warning is issued, take cover as quickly as you can, below ground if possible, and stay there until instructed to do otherwise.
  • Go as far below ground as possible or in the centre of a tall building.
  • Do not look at the flash or fireball - it can blind you.
  • Lie flat on the ground and cover your head. If the explosion is some distance away, it could take 30 seconds or more for the blast wave to hit.
  • After a bomb strike, remove your clothing to keep radioactive material from spreading. Removing the outer layer of clothing can remove up to 90 per cent of radioactive material.
  • After a bomb strike, if possible, take a shower with lots of soap and water to help remove radioactive contamination. Do not scrub or scratch the skin.

For the full guide, visit www.ready.gov/nuclear-blast

Source: U.S. Department of Homeland Security