In the terrifying event of a nuclear explosion, the first 10 minutes are absolutely critical. Your decisions in those moments could mean the difference between life and death. While we hope the world never faces such horror, being prepared is the only rational response. Here’s exactly what you need to do immediately after a nuclear strike.
1. Get Inside Immediately
The biggest threat after the initial blast is radiation fallout. If you’re outside and survive the initial shockwave, you have seconds to act. Run into the nearest sturdy building — preferably one with a basement or thick concrete walls. Cars are not safe. Neither are tents or wooden sheds. The goal is to put as many dense materials between you and the outside air as possible.
2. Stay Away from Windows
Even if you’re inside, glass offers no protection. Windows can shatter from the blast wave or pressure differences, and they do nothing against radiation. Move to the center of the building or underground, if possible.
3. Seal Yourself In
Once inside:
- Shut all windows and doors.
- Turn off fans, air conditioners, and ventilation systems that draw in outside air.
- Block any gaps under doors with wet towels or duct tape if available.
The goal is to reduce exposure to radioactive dust in the fallout.
4. Wait for the Fallout to Settle
Radioactive fallout begins falling within 10 to 15 minutes of the explosion. This is the most dangerous period. The particles are tiny but deadly. They’ll blanket everything — roofs, cars, skin — and emit powerful radiation.
That’s why the first hour to 24 hours are crucial. Staying sealed inside during this time reduces your exposure dramatically.
5. Avoid Tap Water and Contaminated Food
Fallout can contaminate the water supply. If you didn’t store clean water before the strike, don’t drink tap water unless authorities say it’s safe. Eat only sealed food items — anything exposed to the air could be radioactive.
6. Decontaminate If You Were Outside
If you were outside when the blast hit and made it inside:
- Remove your clothes immediately and seal them in a plastic bag. This can eliminate 90% of radioactive contamination.
- Take a shower with soap and warm water, but do not scrub harshly, as it can damage the skin and allow particles in.
- Don’t use conditioner — it can bind radioactive particles to your hair.
7. Stay Tuned for Official Instructions
Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio available. Cell service may be down. Authorities will broadcast instructions, including whether it’s safe to leave, when to evacuate, and where to go.
8. Don’t Leave Your Shelter Prematurely
Fallout radiation decreases rapidly over time. After 24 hours, radiation levels can drop by 80–90%. Unless authorities instruct you otherwise, stay sheltered for at least 24–48 hours. If you must leave, cover your body fully and move quickly to another shelter.
Being informed is not paranoia — it’s survival.
If you ever hear the warning sirens, or see a blinding flash of light on the horizon, remember: you may only have seconds to act.
Stay calm. Get inside. Stay inside. Stay informed.