THE ESSENTIAL ACTION
Get inside, stay inside, and stay tuned to official instructions. A basement or the middle of a substantial building offers better shelter.
Before: make the plan
- Know the local warning system and shelter plans near your home, workplace, and school.
- Keep a radio, water, essential medicines, and a communication plan available.
- Learn the official advice for sheltering and removing contamination before you need it.
During: protect people
- Move indoors promptly and away from exterior walls and the roof. Follow instructions about ventilation.
- If you were outside, follow official decontamination advice, including carefully removing outer clothing and washing exposed skin when possible.
- Do not take potassium iodide unless public-health officials or a health professional direct you to. It is not general protection against radiation.
After: recover carefully
- Remain sheltered until officials provide further instructions. Do not leave to collect family members from facilities that are sheltering.
- Follow official advice on evacuation, food, water, and possible exposure.
Published by the Beforetheoutage.com editorial desk.
Read the official guidance
Source links included 3 October 2026. Guidance must be adapted to your country, building, and personal circumstances.
