What you don't know could hurt you!

As I was traveling from St. Louis to a class in Columbia, Missouri, I took this picture out the car window. Can you see the tiny structure in the distance with vapor rising from it? It's Callaway nuclear power plant. I am reminded that anytime we travel, we are exposed to new and changing risks.

Where I live, I'm not in immediate danger of radioactive contamination from a reactor. I also have little concern for tsunamis, earthquakes, hurricanes or wildfires. The tallest building near me is only a few stories, and the outdoor warning sirens are tested the first Monday of every month at 10:00 am. But...

When you or I travel even a couple of hours from home we face new risks, new procedures and new warning mechanisms. Although we may not (and likely cannot) be aware of and prepared for every risk we will pass by, we CAN be aware that we are unaware. We can keep our heads up and remain mindful of our surroundings. IF an emergency comes our way, we can be prepared to react in an informed fashion.

Nuclear Aftermath for Beginners (or - That could be us!)

www.cbsnews.com

 

What should you do about nuclear safety in your home? In the US, public awareness and education campaigns have failed.  In Japan, as time hurdles on and as more residents are evacuated due to concerns at the nuclear plants, the need for basic resources becomes desperate.  Many victims have no phone, no power, no heat, and no food, some have no home.  And many residents are now facing a cloud of radioactive exhaust from efforts to stabilize the affected reactors. 

What can we do if we are thrust into a situation where nuclear contamination is a concern?  With so many variables out of our control, here's how to prepare for what we can control.

1) Be prepared to shelter in place.  Make a kit and train your family.  Do it now.

• Know local risks and listen for the alert or notification.
• Go to a room on the top floor, with fewest windows and vents.
• Turn off fans and ventilation systems in whole house.
• Take shelter in place kit with you. (Add duct tape, large sheets of plastic, and a bucket to your current emergency kit.)
• Close doors and windows, seal all openings to the room with tape and plastic.
• Listen to media for further instructions.

2) Keep a stock of food, bottled water, medication, and needed supplies in your home at all times.

3) Chemical emergencies usually only last an hour or more.  Depending on the contamination, nuclear incidents could last more.  If you live within 50 miles of a reactor, check with local authorities for plans and preferred evacuation routes.  Include such information in your family preparedness plan.

4) Stay where you are!  Even if you are in your car (perhaps stranded), staying enclosed is a greater protection than leaving your home, work, or car seeking shelter nearby.  If you are outdoors, seek the closest immediate shelter.

5) Radiation sickness can often be avoided or treated.  Be certain to indoors and follow instructions.  First responders will try to contain and decontaminate the area (and you, if needed).  Do not expose others by moving about before you are permitted.  Decontamination will be simplified if everyone cooperates. 

6) Most related illnesses are caused by high levels or longer terms of exposure to contaminants. Symptoms may be slow and/or subtle to manifest.  Report concerns and symptoms and seek treatment for concern over the next several months.