Survival expert’s one action in first second of a nuclear attack | UK | News

An expert has taken to TikTok to share five crucial steps that could potentially save lives in a doomsday scenario, including what you must do in the first second of a nuclear explosion.

While the threat of World War 3 is ever-present, the prospect of sudden global conflict can make the danger feel more imminent.

However, all is not lost. There are individuals who devote themselves to preparing for catastrophic events, from natural disasters to nuclear attacks. These people, often investing in doomsday bunkers, possess practical knowledge about surviving extreme situations.

One such member of this “preparedness community”, Derrick, known as prepperpress on TikTok, has shared his advice for the public. He posted a video outlining what he believes are the five essential steps to survive a nuclear strike.

He clarified that his guidance is targeted at 300-800 kiloton nuclear weapons, which are typical yields for modern intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).

1. ‘Drop and cover’

Derrick warned that in the event of a nuclear detonation, people are unlikely to receive much warning.

He advised in the first second you must: “Hit the ground, face down, feet facing towards the blast, cover your head.”

“Make sure to keep your mouth open so your lungs don’t burst from the pressure wave and remember, don’t look at the flash.”

2. Surviving the shockwave

Being several miles away from the blast does not mean you’re out of danger.

Derrick highlighted that within a mile of a nuclear explosion, survival is unlikely due to the immediate destruction and chaos.

He warned: “You have got to act quickly to avoid radiation. Ten miles out you are still in danger of fallout and you have got about 10 to 30 minutes before it starts falling into the ground as radioactive dust.”

At a distance of three miles or more, buildings could crumble and glass may transform into deadly shrapnel, but survival is feasible if you’re indoors or underground.

3. ‘Get inside… fast’

Derrick underscored the urgency of seeking indoor refuge swiftly, even if the surroundings seem unaffected. Radiation levels could still be escalating near the explosion site.

He advised: “Get inside fast, ideally a basement, subway, fallout shelter.

He added: “If those aren’t options, you need to get to a brick or concrete building and head to the centre of the building. Hopefully more nukes aren’t following.”

4. Shelter for a few days

Being a few miles away from the blast does not mean the danger is over.

Derrick pointed out that within a mile of a nuclear explosion, survival is unlikely due to the immediate destruction and chaos.

He added: “Stay away from windows and stay away from doorways.

However, securing immediate shelter is just the beginning

Derrick emphasised that the initial 24 hours are crucial, and it might not be safe to venture outside for a while.

He continued: “If you have made it this far it is time to shelter in place, ideally for 72 hours.

“Don’t go outside and try and play hero, you’ll end up dead. Seal up windows, if you can, seal up doorways, cut the airflow from outside in, you want to avoid that radioactive fallout coming into your shelter.

“Hopefully you can have a radio so you can hear the government tell you when it is safe to go outside, hopefully there is still an intact government.”

5. Surviving the shockwave

In certain circumstances, remaining indoors might not be feasible. Derrick outlined the safest approach for moving outside following a nuclear explosion.

He advised: “Hopefully you don’t have to go outside, but let’s say your shelter is on fire and you have no choice.

He added: “Cover your mouth with a mask or a cloth, wear goggles, wear gloves and wrap up anything exposed.

“Travel perpendicular to the wind direction to help avoid radioactive fallout.

“When you do get back into a shelter, you need to decontaminate, take off your clothes, put them in a bag and throw them outside.

He added: “Then take a shower but don’t use conditioner because that will bind the particles to your hair.”

Derrick emphasised the critical importance of stockpiling food and water in your refuge, whilst maintaining composure amongst those sheltering with you.

Therefore, should the unimaginable occur, adequate preparation and maintaining a level head would prove vital to enduring the catastrophe.