Where to shelter from nuclear fallout

Shelter types, in FEMA’s order [1][2]

1. Underground: basements, subway tunnels, underground parking garages.
2. Center of a large, heavy building: most commercial buildings; thick-walled masonry.
3. House with a basement: the basement.
4. Wood frame house, no basement: limited protection, still far better than outside.
5. A car is not a shelter.

• Concrete, brick, stone, and earth shield well. Wood and drywall shield little alone, but many walls add up.
• Put as many walls between you and the outside as you can.
• Broken windows do not rule a building out if it is structurally sound.

Where in the building [1][4]

• Go to the basement or the middle of the building.
• Stay away from the roof, outside walls, windows, corners, and doors.
• House with basement: basement, away from windows and outside walls.
• House without basement: interior room or hallway near the center.
• Apartment or office: interior hallway or windowless room near the center, away from roof and outer walls. A basement or underground garage is better.

If your shelter is poor [1]

• Adequate shelter within about 15 minutes: move there no later than 30 minutes after the blast.
• Somewhat better shelter: stay an hour or two, then move.

How long to stay [1][2][5]

• At least 24 hours. The right time to leave can be a few hours to several days.
• Leave early only for fire, gas leak, building collapse, or serious injury.
• Otherwise wait for officials to say it is safe or give evacuation instructions.

Air and ventilation [1][6]

• Close and lock windows and doors.
• Turn off fans, air conditioners, and forced-air heat. Close fireplace dampers.
• You do not need to seal the room. Keep enough ventilation for indoor air quality.

Food and water [8]

• Sealed food and drinks already inside are safe, including unspoiled fridge and freezer food. Wipe containers from outside.
• Drink bottled water until officials clear other water. Toilet tank (not bowl) and water heater water are also free of radioactive material.
• Boiling does not remove radioactive material. Tap water is fine for washing.
• Keep taking your medications.

Keep in your shelter spot [2][3][7]

Water and food

• Water: 1 gallon per person per day, several days
• Several days of non-perishable food
• Manual can opener
• Pet food and water; infant supplies if needed

Information and light

• Battery or hand-crank radio; NOAA Weather Radio
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Phone charger and backup battery

Health and cleanup

• First aid kit; medications and eyeglasses
• Spare clothes for each person
• Trash bags and ties for contaminated clothing
• Moist towelettes, soap, dust mask

Other

• Sleeping bag or blanket for each person
• Whistle; wrench or pliers for utilities
• Local maps; paper, pencil, kids activities