Responding to Radiological Events

LEARN THESE TERMS

Radiological Dispersion Device (RDD): A bomb designed to spread radioactive materials over a wide area; often called a “dirty bomb”

Radioactive materials: Materials with unstable atoms that release radiation as they decay

Meltdown: Any severe accident at a nuclear reactor resulting from overheating. This could refer to a loss of coolant storage, damage to the nuclear core, or release of radioactive materials

Neutron bomb: A thermonuclear weapon designed to spread neutron radiation while minimizing the physical force of the explosion

RADIATION FACTS

  • Naturally occurs in water, rocks, life, etc.
  • There are many types of radiation, some more dangerous than others
  • Severe radiation usually dissipates quickly
  • Danger is cumulative, the longer you are exposed, the worse it is

REMEMBER : There are currently no nuclear plants in Colorado, but there is one reactor operated by the USGS, so the risk of a meltdown is very low

IF YOUR FACILITY IS NEAR A RADIOLOGICAL EVENT

  • Follow emergency alert system instructions carefully; this could be vital in safeguarding your life and health
  • Turn off HVAC systems and close windows / vents
  • Retrieve your disaster supply kit and go to a ground level room with as few windows and doors as possible
  • Seal windows and doors with duct tape; Note: This cannot shield you from radioactivity
  • Listen to media broadcasts for instructions
  • After the event, authorities may advise you to take a thorough shower and seal your clothes in a bag
  • Any food products left out during the event should be washed or destroyed

IF YOU ARE CAUGHT OUTDOORS DURING A RADIOLOGICAL EVENT

  • Seek shelter inside an undamaged building
  • If no shelter is available, move upwind as quickly as possible until you find shelter
  • Listen to media broadcasts for instructions from civil authorities

The information above was taken from our guide, “Ready for Anything”. To receive your free copy, visit our website today.