The human mind can scarcely comprehend what would occur in the aftermath of a nuclear exchange. Even so, thermonuclear weapons exist as does the possibility of their deployment.

Should this occur, the initial blast would claim many lives. Short and long term exposure to radiation would cause further suffering and loss. Damage to the environment would be irreversible. The threat to humans and other biological life would continue for many years.

Know the Targets

Nuclear targets could include the following areas:

• Military bases, airfields, storage facilities and other such locations
• Large cities and state capitals
• National capitals (example: Washington D.C.)
• Government buildings and areas of national significance
• Airports, water and other commercial ports
• Areas of industry
• Centers of population
• Large agriculture and food-production locations

Get Inside, Stay Inside

The moment you realize a nuclear attack is imminent, seek shelter. You need to shield yourself and your loved ones. Following such a blast, winds of up to 600 mph carry radiation far from the target. Quick reaction time could save your life and the lives of your loved ones.

Some official information advises sheltering for at least 48 hours. However, it is advisable to plan for a much longer period of time (several weeks or more). When the dust has settled, opening the door that separates you from the outside world will be risky. However, at some point indoor air will need to be replenished.

If wind is present, keep the door shut. Winds will lift the radiated earth and dust from the ground and carry it inside where you and your family are then exposed. Do not go outside and walk around until the environment stabilizes.

When you must venture out, be aware that whatever is on the ground is highly toxic to all forms of biological life, water and everything else in the environment. Cover yourself well and remove clothing/shoes before reentering your shelter or home.

1. Prepare Your Home. Make sure your home is leak-proof and air-tight. In the aftermath of a nuclear attack it is critical that the outside air cannot enter your home. Does your home need repairs? Make them now. Exposure to the initial radiation resulting from a thermonuclear blast would have disastrous effects on human health.
   •  After an attack, use plastic sheeting, duct tape or other supplies to seal off a room, or several rooms, where you and your family can stay.
   • Oxygen depletes quickly in a sealed space. At some point, you will have to allow fresh air in. Allow as much time as possible to pass before unsealing your home. Do so one room at a time. Keep the other rooms safe (sealed) as long as possible.
2. Keep Sheltering Supplies On Hand. Necessary supplies include duct tape, plastic sheeting, face masks, hazmat suits or other such coverings, large and small garbage bags and tools to shut off utilities. Include books, games and decks of cards. Electronics likely will not work so do not rely on digital entertainment. It is important to keep your mind active in aftermath of disasters. Do not underestimate the trauma such an event could cause you and family members.
3. At-Home Survival Kit. Make sure your at-home survival kit includes what you will need. Don’t forget flashlights, batteries, medical supplies, emergency crank-radios, burn treatments, whistles, food, water and other emergency supplies. Keep easy-to-read medical treatment procedures with your survival supplies.
4. Stable, Non-Perishable Foods. Store canned foods even if  you do not generally eat them. Include rice, beans, powdered milk, old-fashioned oats, pasta and as much potable (drinkable) water as you can store. Plan for one gallon of water per person per day. Practice conservation habits.
5. Pet Supplies. Pets are part of the family. Remember to store sealed food and supplies for your pets. They will also need water and emergency supplies.
6. Waste Management.  Store thick garbage bags, large and small, for human and pet waste. You should not allow pets outside due to the risk of exposure.

You do not need to spend much money to prepare your home for this type of disaster. Pick up a few extra items each time you go shopping. Find an area and designate that as a disaster storage area. Rotate foods which will expire and keep everything organized. Water can be kept in the basement or even under the house if you have floor access inside your home. Your chances of survival greatly increase living in a prepared home.

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Author Jana Brock (pen name) has extensive training and years of professional experience in emergency management, domestic preparedness and teaching citizen preparedness. This information is not all inclusive. Reader should do independent research on thermonuclear and other disaster aftermaths and then prepare accordingly. It is also advisable to research, and plan for, EMP (Electromagnetic Pulse) attacks.

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