Britons will be advised to ‘go in, stay in, tune in’ if the UK faces a ‘radiation emergency’, according to new guidance from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), published today.
This advice comes amidst increasing global tensions involving nuclear powers such as China and Russia. Last year, Russian state TV even aired a simulation depicting how Vladimir Putin could launch a nuclear strike on London, claiming there would be ‘no survivors’.
While the guidance does not specifically mention nuclear weapons, it outlines what actions Britons should take in the event of a ‘radiation emergency’, which could arise from a leak at a nuclear power plant or during the transportation of radioactive material.
The primary directive is for individuals to seek shelter indoors as quickly as possible, as this can reduce radiation exposure by up to 85 percent compared to being outdoors. Additionally, being indoors decreases the amount of radioactive material inhaled by 40 percent, according to the advice.
The document emphasizes that any building offers some level of protection, with structures made of brick, stone, concrete, or similar materials providing the best defense. Even if indoors, individuals should remain inside and follow official government instructions, which will be communicated via various channels including radio, television, internet, social media, or through law enforcement.
In certain scenarios, individuals may be required to remain indoors for up to two days to minimize further exposure, a process known as ‘sheltering-in-place’. Those who have been outside and potentially exposed to contamination may be advised to decontaminate themselves by removing clothing, which eliminates 90 percent of contamination, and taking a shower.
The UKHSA also acknowledges the possibility of radioactive material reaching the UK from emergencies abroad, citing the example of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in 1986, where fallout affected parts of Western Europe, including the UK.
In the aftermath of a radiation emergency, health authorities may distribute iodine tablets, which block radiation from harming the thyroid gland. Long-term measures could include the temporary or permanent evacuation of affected regions, as seen in other countries facing nuclear disasters such as Japan’s Fukushima incident in 2011.
Immediate health risks from radiation exposure include burns and radiation sickness, while long-term risks include an increased likelihood of developing cancers from contaminated food and water.
The guidance aims to prepare the public for potential radiation emergencies and outlines steps to mitigate risks and protect health in such situations.
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