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Summary
Radiation is a type of energy. People are exposed to small amounts of radiation every day from sources such as sunlight. A radiation emergency would involve larger amounts of radiation and could be caused by:
- Dirty bombs - a mix of explosives with radioactive powder
- Fallout from a nuclear bomb
- Accidental release from a nuclear reactor or a nuclear weapons plant
A lot of radiation over a short period can cause burns or radiation sickness. If the exposure is large enough, it can cause premature aging or even death.
Although there are no guarantees of safety during a radiation emergency, you can take actions to protect yourself. You should have a disaster plan. Being prepared can help reduce fear, anxiety and losses. If you do experience a disaster, it is normal to feel stressed. You may need help in finding ways to cope.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Learn More
- Federal Emergency Management Agency Also in Spanish
- Frequently Asked Questions about Radiation Emergencies (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
- Radiation Protection (Environmental Protection Agency) Also in Spanish
- What Causes Contamination versus Exposure (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
Journal Articles References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
- Article: Development of a business continuity plan and implementation of headquarters operation...
- Article: Identifying the components of prehospital emergency preparedness in radiological and nuclear...
- Article: A qualitative study on preparedness requirements for responding to chemical, biological,...
- Radiation Emergencies -- see more articles
The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.