In a radiation emergency:
Get Inside
- Get inside a building and take shelter for at least 24 hours.
Stay Inside
- Stay inside to reduce your exposure to radiation.
Stay Tuned
- Stay tuned for important information about how to keep you and your family safe. (SCU Bronco Alert, Local & National News, CDC and other government news feeds)
CDC's main page on Radiation Emergencies HERE
Types of Radiation Emergencies
Radiation emergencies may be intentional (e.g., caused by terrorists) or unintentional. Below are some examples of different types of radiation emergencies. Click on the icons to find out what to do if a radiation emergency happens in your area.
Nuclear Emergencies
A nuclear emergency involves the explosion of a nuclear weapon or improvised nuclear device (IND). The explosion produces an intense pulse of heat, light, air pressure, and radiation. Nuclear explosions produce fallout (radioactive materials that can be carried long distances by the wind).
Dirty Bomb or Radiological Dispersal Device (RDD)
A dirty bomb (also known as a radiological dispersal device) is a mix of explosives such as dynamite, with radioactive powder or pellets. A dirty bomb cannot create an atomic blast. When the explosives are set off, the blast carries radioactive material into the surrounding area.
Radiological Exposure Device (RED)
A radiological exposure device (also called a hidden sealed source) is made of or contains radioactive material. REDs are hidden from sight to expose people to radiation without their knowledge.
Nuclear Power Plant Accident
An accident at a nuclear power plant could release radiation over an area. Nuclear power plants have many safety and security procedures in place and are closely monitored by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)
More information from the CDC can be found in their Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Radiation Emergencies
Additionally, you may view two recently produced videos from the CDC on: