When a war, air-raid or nuclear warning sounds — how to shelter and what to have

What to have

• Battery-powered or hand crank radio (works if other communication fails)
• A spare change of clothes for each family member
• A trash bag for contaminated clothing
• Sealed food, water and medicine
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)

If warned

1. Immediately get inside the nearest building and move away from windows. Put as many walls between you and the outside as you can.
2. If you are outside at the moment of a detonation, lie face down to protect exposed skin from the heat and flying debris. After the shockwave passes, go inside the nearest building as quickly as possible.

After a detonation

1. You will have 10 minutes or more to find adequate shelter before fallout arrives. Go to a multi-story building or a basement you can reach within a few minutes. Brick or concrete buildings are safest; underground parking garages and subways can also provide good shelter.
2. Remain in the most protective location (basement or center of a large building) for the first 24 hours unless threatened by fire, gas leak, building collapse or serious injury, or told by authorities that it is safe to leave.
3. Turn off fans, air conditioners and forced-air heating that bring air in from outside. Close windows and doors.
4. Follow instructions from officials. If advised to evacuate, listen for routes and shelters, and do not return until told it is safe.

If you were outside

1. Remove your outer layer of contaminated clothing — this can remove up to 90% of radioactive material.
2. If possible, shower or wash with soap and water. Hand sanitizer does not protect against radioactive material.
3. Food that was inside a building, and food in sealed containers (after wiping them with a damp cloth), is safe. Do not eat food or liquids that were outdoors and uncovered until authorities say it is safe.