FEMA warns Americans to maintain social distancing, mask-wearing after nuclear explosion

The U.S. government continued its winning streak of giving Americans head-scratching advice as the Federal Emergency Management Agency gave updated guidance on COVID protections.

But FEMA’s tips to avoid the virus were listed in the latest advice on what to do in a nuclear explosion, advising that one should “maintain a distance of at least six feet” and, of course, wear a mask.

“Nuclear explosions can cause significant damage and casualties from blast, heat, and radiation but you can keep your family safe by knowing what to do and being prepared if it occurs,” the federal agency noted on its “Nuclear Explosion” public awareness website which was updated last week.

“A nuclear explosion may occur with or without a few minutes warning,” the guidance continued. “Fallout is most dangerous in the first few hours after the detonation when it is giving off the highest levels of radiation. It takes time for fallout to arrive back to ground level, often more than 15 minutes for areas outside of the immediate blast damage zones.”

Among the recommended steps to take immediately in the face of such a dire situation, FEMA suggests getting inside of a building, preferably brick or concrete.

“Go to the basement or middle of the building. Stay away from the outer walls and roof. Try to maintain a distance of at least six feet between yourself and people who are not part of your household. If possible, wear a mask if you’re sheltering with people who are not a part of your household,” FEMA continued.

“Continue to practice social distancing by wearing a mask and by keeping a distance of at least six feet between yourself and people who not (sic) part of your household,” the instructions noted.

There were other references to COVID-19 as well as if that would be at the forefront of anyone’s mind in the middle of a nuclear attack.

Frieda Powers

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