NUCLEAR EFFECTS
This nuclear effect accounts for the largest percentage of energy and causes overpressure and high winds.
Blast (50%)
What is the very first action you must take when you see a brilliant flash?
Close your eyes immediately
What is the first thing you should do when you receive warning of a nuclear attack?
Seek the best available shelter immediately
How soon can fallout typically arrive after a nuclear detonation?
Within 15–30 minutes (or less)
Which shelter provides the highest protection factor?
Basement of a concrete building (PF 100+)
This nuclear effect causes burns, fires, and flash blindness.
Thermal (35%)
What position must you assume immediately after seeing the flash?
Drop to the ground in the prone position
What type of shelter provides the best protection if available?
A below-ground or concrete structure
How quickly must decontamination begin after finding contamination?
Within 1 minute
Why does mass between you and fallout increase protection?
Mass absorbs and blocks radiation
This nuclear effect includes both initial and residual radiation exposure.
Radiation (15%)
How long must you remain down after the flash and why?
At least 90 seconds to allow the blast wave and debris to pass
Why does getting below ground increase survivability?
Earth and concrete provide mass that reduces radiation exposure
What is considered radioactive during a nuclear event?
ALL dust
What common mistake causes flash blindness during a nuclear detonation?
Looking at the flash
What are the three main effects of a nuclear weapon and their energy percentages?
Blast – 50%, Thermal – 35%, Radiation – 15%
Name three ways to protect exposed skin after a nuclear flash.
Hands under body, tuck chin, cover neck and ears
What actions should you take to protect yourself from blast and debris?
Get to cover, close eyes, cover exposed skin, and position yourself away from openings
What is the correct method for brushing off radioactive contamination?
Brush from head to toe using a brush, broom, cloth, or gloved hands
Why is standing up too soon after a nuclear blast dangerous?
The blast wave and debris may still be incoming
Why is understanding nuclear weapon effects important for survival?
It helps Soldiers take the correct protective actions to reduce injury and avoid becoming a casualty.
Why do Soldiers have less than 3 seconds to react to a brilliant flash?
Because the blast wave follows immediately and can cause severe injury or death.
What should you prepare for immediately after reaching shelter?
Fallout arrival and possible decontamination
Why should you NOT scrub or abrade your skin during decontamination?
It can cause radioactive particles to enter the body through the skin
Name three common errors Soldiers must avoid during a nuclear incident.
Looking at the flash
Standing up too soon
Not seeking shelter
Delaying decontamination
Failing to report radiological markers