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
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Do not rush in unprotected — you risk exposing yourself.
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Move yourself and the victim away from the radiation source if safe.
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Follow official instructions if in a large-scale event (evacuation, sheltering, or decontamination points).
2. Call emergency services immediately
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Dial your local emergency number.
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Tell them it’s a suspected radiation exposure (type, location, number of victims if known).
3. Remove from source and limit spread
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Get the person to a safe area away from the radiation source.
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Remove contaminated clothing carefully (cut off if needed). This can eliminate up to 90% of radioactive material.
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Place contaminated clothes in a sealed plastic bag, away from others.
4. Decontaminate the person
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Wash exposed skin gently with lukewarm water and mild soap. Do not scrub harshly (can damage skin and allow radioactive material to enter).
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Rinse eyes with clean water or saline if contaminated.
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Have them blow their nose gently to remove inhaled particles.
5. Provide medical first aid
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Check responsiveness, breathing, and pulse. Begin CPR if necessary.
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Cover any open wounds before washing (to prevent radioactive material entering the bloodstream).
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After washing, cover with clean dressings.
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Keep the person warm and calm.
6. Watch for symptoms of Acute Radiation Syndrome (ARS)
These may appear within minutes to hours:
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Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
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Weakness, dizziness, headache
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Skin redness, burns, or blistering
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Confusion, seizures in severe cases
All suspected cases require hospital treatment and monitoring.
7. Do NOT
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Do not eat, drink, or smoke until decontamination is complete.
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Do not apply creams, lotions, or powders on contaminated skin before washing.
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Do not delay medical care — radiation injuries may not appear immediately but can be severe.
8. Special considerations in large-scale incidents
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Authorities may distribute potassium iodide (KI) to protect the thyroid from radioactive iodine exposure. Take it only under official guidance.
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Follow official updates about sheltering, evacuation routes, and safe zones.
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