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2011

Frequently Asked Questions about a Radiation Emergency

Release Date: March 17, 2011

 
Frequently Asked Questions about a Radiation Emergency
What Is Radiation?
  • Radiation is a form of energy that is present all around us.
  • Different types of radiation exist, some of which have more energy than others.
  • Amounts of radiation released into the environment are measured in units called curies. However, the dose of radiation that a person receives is measured in units called rem.
For more information on radiation measurement, see the CDC fact sheet Measuring Radiation .
For more information about radiation check the following Web sites:
What Preparations Can I Make for a Radiation Emergency?
  • Your community should have a plan in place in case of a radiation emergency. Check with community leaders to learn more about the plan and possible evacuation routes.
  • Check with your child’s school, the nursing home of a family member, and your employer to see what their plans are for dealing with a radiation emergency.
  • Develop your own family emergency plan so that every family member knows what to do.
  • At home, put together an emergency kit that would be appropriate for any emergency. The kit should include the following items:
    • A flashlight with extra batteries
    • A portable radio with extra batteries
    • Bottled water
    • Canned and packaged food
    • A hand-operated can opener
    • A first-aid kit and essential prescription medications
    • Personal items such as paper towels, garbage bags, and toilet paper
For more information about preparing for a radiation emergency event, check the following Web sites:
Content provided and maintained by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).