Defending Yourself Against Radiation

Radiation is a part of our everyday lives. We are constantly exposed to background radiation, which is primarily emitted by natural minerals. Fortunately, the average person is rarely exposed to uncontrolled sources of radiation above background levels. However, it is prudent to be prepared and know what to do in the event that such a situation arises.

Understanding the radiation protection principles of time, distance, and shielding is one of the best ways to be prepared. We can use these principles to help protect ourselves and our families in the event of a radiological emergency (a large release of radioactive material into the environment).

Shielding, Time, and Distance

Time, distance, and shielding acts reduce your radiation exposure in the same manner that they protect you from overexposure to the sun.

Time: Limiting or minimizing exposure time reduces the dose from the radiation source for people who are exposed to radiation in addition to natural background radiation.

Distance: Just as the heat from a fire diminishes as you get further away from it, the dose of radiation diminishes as you get further away from the source.

Protection from penetrating gamma and x-rays is provided by lead, concrete, or water barriers. This is why some radioactive materials are stored in water, concrete, or lead-lined chambers, and why dentists use a lead blanket on patients getting dental x-rays. As a result, putting the right shield between you and a radiation source can drastically reduce or even eliminate the dose you receive.

Emergencies Due to Radiation

The following advice has been tested and confirmed to give maximum protection in the event of a large-scale radioactive release, such as a nuclear power plant accident or a terrorist attack.

If you, your loved ones, or your pets are exposed to radiation, you can take the following steps to safeguard yourself, your loved ones, and your pets: Get Inside, Stay Inside, and Stay Tuned. Follow the instructions of first responders and government officials.

Obtain Access

In the event of a radiation emergency, you may be asked to enter a building and seek shelter for a short time.

This is referred to as “sheltering in place.”

Get to the center of the building or the basement, away from windows and doors.

Bring your pets inside with you.

Stay at home.

Staying inside reduces your radiation exposure.

Close all of the windows and doors.

Shower or use a damp cloth to wipe exposed areas of your body.

Drink bottled water and eat food that has been sealed.

Keep an eye out for updates.

Emergency personnel have been trained to respond to disasters and will provide precise instructions to assist people stay safe.

Get the most up-to-date information from radio, television, the Internet, mobile phones, and other sources.

Information on where to get a contamination screening will be provided by emergency officials.

Resources

Learn more about protecting yourself from radiation:

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Emergency Preparedness and Response: Radiation Emergencies

U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Ready.gov

If you identify or come in contact with a radioactive source, locate and contact your state radiation control office