Nuclear War: Necessary Citizen Response
Knowing the drastic consequences of a nuclear explosion, some might dismiss an attack as inevitable death. However, there are several response factors that can increase the likelihood one fully escapes the wrath of an explosion.
First and foremost, evacuation from an endangered region is paramount. Although some might dismiss this as useless considering nuclear war is unexpected and always large scale, their analysis is flawed. In this day and age of constant electronic monitoring, extensive news and media coverage and national intelligence reports, there are always outlets one can turn to so as to check the development of war efforts or even the possible use of a nuclear weapon. With this information, one can more effectively plan an escape route. The ideal direction to head is to a higher altitude location. This geographic demarcation is necessary insofar as wind currents and radiation proliferation are concerned. Wind currents can easily disseminate radioactive particles and infect individuals miles from the blast site.
Secondly, citizens should be prepared to move in a community based endeavors Sociologists have discovered that community based actions, especially in times of stress create calmer environments. Additionally, the more citizens working together to guarantee safety and security, the less are the casualties and damages. This particular response system is directly related to community organizations and associations. Should one citizen be privy to information indicating that a nuclear attack is imminent, they should immediately inform fellow citizens and act accordingly.
In terms of direct response after an explosion, the most important rule is to never venture outside unless notified by government officials. This particular tenant is determined by the fact that radiation is one of the most under-evaluated nuclear risks that actually have one of the highest likelihoods of increased casualties. Even stepping out of a building for a few seconds exposes one to a few seconds of inhaling radioactive toxins and a few seconds of absorbing radioactive toxins into one’s skin.
Thus action should ultimately be undergone until government officials can guarantee the relative dissemination of toxins away from your region and the extraction of radioactively charged soil and structures. Even upon their notification, remain inside a building, otherwise seek evacuation to a higher altitude by car immediately. Avoid using public transportation as other people who may have unknowingly become radioactively poisoned by also be using this mode of transportation. Should they sit anywhere near you, you could also develop their poisoning by unintentional contact with them.
Sources Consulted
Sources
- "Disasters" United States Department of Health and Human Services. 2006. 3 March 2006. <http://www.hhs.gov/disasters/index.shtml>
- "City of Nome Disaster Response Plan - Administrative Overview." 2003
<http://www.nomealaska.org/reports/EOP-Vol1-FINAL.pdf> - "Hazards" Federal Emergency Management Agency. 2006. March 3 2006. <http://www.fema.gov/hazards/public.shtm>