1. Preparing Before a Nuclear Attack

Know the Risks & Targets

Understand scenarios—terrorist devices vs. war—and locate potential targets. This shapes your evacuation & shelter plan.

Create a Family Emergency Plan

Designate meeting points and communication methods. In Switzerland, tune into national sirens and the Alertswiss app.

Build Your Nuclear Survival Kit

• Water (4 L/day/person, ≥14 days)
• Non-perishable food (≥14 days)
• First-aid kit & medications
• Potassium iodide tablets (CDC KI guidance)
• Hand-crank radio
• Flashlight & batteries
• Dust masks & protective clothing
• Sanitation supplies & duct tape

Or pick a ready-made kit from our Survival Kits.

Identify Shelter Options

Locate basements or strong buildings you can reach in minutes. Switzerland legally guarantees public shelters in every commune via the FOCP.

2. Immediate Actions During the Blast

Drop & Cover Instantly

If you see a flash brighter than the sun, drop face-down, cover your eyes and skin. Shockwave follows seconds later—stay low.

Seek Shelter Quickly

You have ~10–20 min before fallout falls. Move fast to the interior of a concrete building or basement. Cars and wooden structures offer no protection.

Seal & Shield

Close all doors/windows, turn off ventilation. Seal cracks with plastic & duct tape. Remove dusty outer clothes & shower to remove fallout.

3. Sheltering from Fallout & Radiation

Stay Inside 48 Hours+

Fallout peaks in first 48 h. Experts recommend sheltering at least 2 days, ideally up to 2 weeks if supplies allow (Ready.gov).

Monitor Official Updates

Use your radio for emergency broadcasts. Swiss residents: listen to RSR/RTS or the Alertswiss app.

Ration Supplies

Use sealed food & water only. Avoid outdoor sources until declared safe.

Mental Resilience

Keep calm—inventory supplies, read instructions, or play simple games to manage stress. Preparedness reduces panic.

4. Surviving the Aftermath

When to Exit

Wait for an official all-clear or ≥48 h. Wear masks & long clothes when first exiting to avoid dust contact.

Evacuation vs. Shelter

Follow evacuation orders instantly—take your kit and go. Otherwise remain in your decontaminated shelter until help arrives.

Long-Term Outlook

Be ready for shortages—infrastructure recovery may take weeks. Cooperate with local relief efforts.

5. Essential Gear & Tools

Survival Kits

Pre-packed essentials—all in one box.

Voir la collection

Multitools

Ouvrez, coupez, réparez—tout-en-un.

Voir la collection

Flashlights & Batteries

Pour éclairer vos abris.

Voir produits

Emergency Radios

Restez informé même sans électricité.

Voir produits

6. Frequently Asked Questions

7. Conclusion

Nuclear war is horrifying, but with the right knowledge and gear your survival chances skyrocket. Remember : Get inside. Stay inside. Stay informed. Equip-vous en qualité suisse chez AlpineRecon et partagez ce guide autour de vous.