Nuclear emergency — what to do during

Get inside, stay inside, stay tuned

If you are warned

1. Go into the nearest building immediately. Move away from windows.
2. Go to the basement or the centre of the building. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside.
3. Stay there and follow official instructions on radio, TV or phone alerts.

If you are outside and see a flash

1. Take cover behind anything that offers protection.
2. Lie face down to protect exposed skin from heat and flying debris.
3. After the shock wave passes, get into the nearest solid building as fast as you can.

Fallout (radioactive dust) takes at least 10 minutes to arrive. You have time to reach shelter. Brick or concrete buildings, basements, underground car parks and subways protect best.

How long to stay inside

• Stay in the most protected spot for at least the first 24 hours, unless officials say it is safe to leave.
• Radiation levels fall quickly during the first 24 hours, so staying put matters most at the start.
• Leave earlier only for an immediate danger such as fire, a gas leak, the building collapsing, or a serious injury.

While you shelter

• Switch off fans, air conditioning and heating that pulls air from outside.
• Close windows, doors and fireplace dampers.
• Bring pets inside.
• Keep listening. If told to evacuate, follow the official routes. Do not go home until authorities say it is safe.