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Wednesday, August 20, 2025

What to do if someone is exposed to radiation?


Exposure to radiation can range from a minor localized incident (like an X-ray spill or lab mishap) to a major radiation emergency (such as a nuclear accident, radiological dispersal device, or reactor leak). The priorities are safety, decontamination, and urgent medical care.

1. Ensure your own safety first

  • Do not rush in unprotected — you risk exposing yourself.

  • Move yourself and the victim away from the radiation source if safe.

  • Follow official instructions if in a large-scale event (evacuation, sheltering, or decontamination points).

2. Call emergency services immediately

  • Dial your local emergency number.

  • Tell them it’s a suspected radiation exposure (type, location, number of victims if known).

3. Remove from source and limit spread

  • Get the person to a safe area away from the radiation source.

  • Remove contaminated clothing carefully (cut off if needed). This can eliminate up to 90% of radioactive material.

  • Place contaminated clothes in a sealed plastic bag, away from others.

4. Decontaminate the person

  • Wash exposed skin gently with lukewarm water and mild soap. Do not scrub harshly (can damage skin and allow radioactive material to enter).

  • Rinse eyes with clean water or saline if contaminated.

  • Have them blow their nose gently to remove inhaled particles.

5. Provide medical first aid

  • Check responsiveness, breathing, and pulse. Begin CPR if necessary.

  • Cover any open wounds before washing (to prevent radioactive material entering the bloodstream).

  • After washing, cover with clean dressings.

  • Keep the person warm and calm.

6. Watch for symptoms of Acute Radiation Syndrome (ARS)

These may appear within minutes to hours:

  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

  • Weakness, dizziness, headache

  • Skin redness, burns, or blistering

  • Confusion, seizures in severe cases

All suspected cases require hospital treatment and monitoring.

7. Do NOT

  • Do not eat, drink, or smoke until decontamination is complete.

  • Do not apply creams, lotions, or powders on contaminated skin before washing.

  • Do not delay medical care — radiation injuries may not appear immediately but can be severe.

8. Special considerations in large-scale incidents

  • Authorities may distribute potassium iodide (KI) to protect the thyroid from radioactive iodine exposure. Take it only under official guidance.

  • Follow official updates about sheltering, evacuation routes, and safe zones.




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