Radiological or nuclear emergency
Official UK advice for a radiological or nuclear emergency: go in, stay in, tune in — and follow instructions from the authorities.
WHAT TO DO NOW
- 1Go inside a building and stay there — walls significantly reduce exposure.
- 2Close all windows, doors and vents; turn off ventilation and air conditioning.
- 3Tune in to BBC local radio, TV or official channels and follow instructions exactly.
- 4If you were outside near the incident, remove outer clothing, seal it in a bag, and wash exposed skin and hair with soap and water.
- 5Only take potassium iodate/iodide tablets if specifically instructed by the authorities.
- 6Stay indoors until told it is safe; do not self-evacuate unless instructed.
What not to do
- Do not go outside or towards the incident.
- Do not take iodine tablets unless the authorities tell you to.
- Do not eat or drink anything that may have been exposed outdoors.
What is it?
A radiological or nuclear emergency involves the accidental or deliberate release of radioactive material. The UK has detailed off-site emergency plans led by responders and UKHSA.
What might happen?
You may be told to shelter indoors, and in some cases to take stable iodine tablets or evacuate. Areas around the site may be cordoned and monitored.
First 10 minutes
Get indoors immediately. Close and seal windows, doors and vents. Turn off ventilation. Tune in.
First hour
Stay in an internal room. Follow official instructions precisely, including any advice on iodine tablets or decontamination. Reassure others.
First 24 hours
Remain sheltered until the authorities issue the all-clear. Follow guidance on food, water and cleaning. Cooperate with any monitoring or decontamination.
If it continues for several days
Follow the official off-site emergency plan communicated by responders and UKHSA. Advice is hazard-specific and may change — rely only on official sources.
Children
Keep children indoors and calm; keep them away from windows and any items brought in from outside.
Older & vulnerable people
Help vulnerable neighbours get indoors and follow instructions; ensure they have medication with them.
Pets
Bring pets indoors and keep them there; wipe down pets that were outside if advised.
Communications
Battery/wind-up radio and official alerts are essential. Keep your phone charged and lines free for emergencies.
Official sources
This guidance is an editorial explanation of official UK advice. Always follow instructions from the authorities.
- UK Health Security Agency Published 2025-01-01
- GOV.UK — Prepare Published 2024-06-01
- ProtectUK (Counter Terrorism Policing) Published 2024-01-01