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.
