RDDs (Radiological Dispersion Device)

Terrorist use of an RDD (often called dirty nuke or dirty bomb) is considered far more likely than the use of a nuclear explosive device. An RDD combines a conventional explosive device (such as a bomb) with radioactive material. It is designed to scatter dangerous and sublethal amounts of radioactive material over a general area. Depending on how fast the area of the RDD detonation was evacuated or how successful people were at sheltering-in-place, the number of deaths and injuries from an RDD might not be substantially greater than from a conventional bomb explosion.

The size of the affected area and the level of destruction caused by an RDD depends on the sophistication and size of the bomb; the type quality and quantity of the radioactive material used; and the local weather conditions, primarily wind and precipitation. the area affected could be placed off-limited to the public for severalmonths during cleanup efforts.

Taking shelter during and RDD event is essential. There are two kinds of shelters: blast shelters and fallout shelters.
  • Blast Shelters
    • Blast shelters are specifically constructed to offer some protection again blast pressure, initial radiation, heat and fire. But even a blast shelter cannot withstand a direct hit from a nuclear explosion.
  • Fallout Shelters
    • Fallout shelters do not need to be specially constructed for protecting against fallout. They can be any protected spaced, provided that the walls and roof are thick and dense enough to absorb the radiation given off by fallout particles.
If appropriate shelter is not available, cover your nose and mouth and move as rapidly as is safe upwind, away from the location of the explosive blast. Then, seek appropriate shelter as soon as possible,

In the event of an RDD:
  • If you have time, turn off ventilation and heating systems, close windows, vents, fireplace dampers, exhaust ans and clothes dryer vents.
  • Retrieve your emergency supply kit and a battery-powered radio and take them to your shelter room.
  • Seek shelter immediately, preferably underground of in an interior room of a building, placing as much distance and dense shielding as possible between you and the outdoors where the radioactive material may be.
  • Seal windows and external doors that do not fit snugly with duct tape to reduce infiltration of radioactive particles. Plastic sheeting used to shelter-in-place will not provide shielding from radioactivity or the blast effects of a nearby explosion.
Monitor the ReadyFrankfort app or local radio for alerts and official instructions.

Contamination from an RDD
You must decontaminate as soon as you have safe shelter. To do this, remove and bag your clothing (and isolate the bag away from you and others), and shower thoroughly with soap and water. Seek medical attention after official indicate it is safe to leave shelter.
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