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What You Should Know to Stay Safe and Ready During a Nuclear Emergency

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How to Stay Safe During a Nuclear Emergency: Simple Guide for Families and Individuals
Credit: Karen Moskowitz

Concerns Rise After US Strike on Iranian Nuclear Sites

People across the US are feeling uneasy. President Donald Trump recently ordered missile strikes on key nuclear facilities in Iran. The targets included sites in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. He claimed the sites were “completely and totally obliterated.”

However, reports from the Defense Intelligence Agency say otherwise. Sources familiar with the findings say Iran’s uranium supply is still intact. Most of the equipment used to enrich it—called centrifuges—also survived. In fact, intelligence suggests Iran moved much of its uranium before the attacks.

One government official said, “The U.S. set them back maybe a few months, tops.”

The Risk of Nuclear Retaliation

The White House rejected the report. Press secretary Karoline Leavitt called it “flat-out wrong.” She defended the strike and praised the pilots who carried it out. “Fourteen 30,000-pound bombs were dropped perfectly,” she said. “That means total obliteration.”

Still, experts are warning Americans not to let their guard down. Iran may choose to respond later. And Iran is not the only threat. The world has other countries with nuclear weapons, and the US could face risks from them as well.

Who Has Nuclear Weapons Right Now?

Right now, Russia holds the world’s largest stockpile of nuclear weapons. The group ICAN says they have over 5,500 warheads. Other nations with nuclear arms include China, India, France, Pakistan, Israel, the United Kingdom, and North Korea.

Tensions with Russia and North Korea have also raised global fears. That’s why experts say being prepared is more important than ever. A nuclear strike can happen quickly, and you may only have a few minutes to act.

What to Do During a Nuclear Emergency

If a nuclear attack happens, time will be short. Your first move should be to get inside a building—fast. Concrete buildings are safer than cars or open spaces. Go to the basement or the center of the building to limit exposure to radiation.

Once inside, stay there. Close windows, turn off fans, and avoid using water from outside. Radiation can spread through air and water. You should stay indoors for at least 24 hours unless authorities say otherwise.

If you were outside during the blast, take off your clothes and wash thoroughly. Radiation can cling to skin and fabric. Cleaning yourself quickly reduces the risk of long-term harm.

How to Prepare Before Anything Happens

Preparedness starts now—not when disaster hits. Keep emergency kits at home, work, and school. These should include water, food, flashlights, extra batteries, and a radio. Potassium iodide tablets can protect your thyroid from radiation. Have them on hand, but only use them if directed by health officials.

Also, know your city’s emergency alert system. Make sure your phone is set to receive alerts. Talk with family and friends about a plan. Choose a meeting place and know the safest buildings near you.

It’s normal to feel scared, but staying informed helps you stay calm. Preparation gives you power, even in a crisis.

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Ebenezer Agbey Quist is a seasoned digital journalist passionate about highlighting Black women's achievements, stories, and issues. He has written over 1,500 articles for allnewsblackwomen.com, which is another portrayal of his expertise in impactful storytelling and digital media. He is also the author of three books: Reformed Not Deformed, Cheers and Tears of After-School Life, and AGB3WOE-3. Previously, he served as the Head of the Human Interest Desk at YEN.com.gh, one of Ghana’s leading news platforms, where he received several awards, including the Outstanding Achievement for Professional Conduct Award and the Best Human Interest Editor Award. Though he holds a BSc in Chemical Engineering from KNUST (2017), Ebenezer transitioned into writing and journalism, building expertise in digital investigations and marketing. He has certifications in AFP’s digital investigation techniques and a Digital Marketing Certificate from Aleph Holding. Email: ebenezerquist.eq48@gmail.com WhatsApp: +233501360650

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