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Get Informed: Radiological / Nuclear Threat
A nuclear accident is an actual or potential release of radioactive material at a nuclear power plant or other nuclear facility in sufficient quantity to threaten the health and safety of the neighboring community.
Macomb County does not have a nuclear power plant. The closest nuclear power plant is the Enrico Fermi-2 plant in Monroe County, approximately 35 miles from the County's southwest border. This plant has not had an incident. Strict regulations at nuclear facilities have drastically reduced the potential for incidents. However, should a catastrophic event occur, Macomb County could be effected by it.
A nuclear blast is an explosion with intense light and heat, a damaging pressure wave and widespread radioactive material that can contaminate the air, water and ground for miles around.
A radiation threat, often called a dirty bomb or radiological dispersion device (RDD), is the use of common explosives to spread radioactive material. It is not a nuclear blast. The force of the explosion and radioactive contamination is more localized. While the blast will be obvious, radiation is not. It can only be detected by testing the scene with specialized equipment.
It is important to limit exposure radiation.
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If you are outside and there is an explosion or authorities warn of a radiation release nearby, cover your nose and mouth and quickly go inside a building that has not been damaged. If you are already inside, check to see if your building has been damaged. If your building is stable, stay where you are. Close windows and doors, turn off air conditioners, heaters or other ventilation systems. Go as far below ground as possible.
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If you are inside and there is an explosion near where you are or you are warned of a radiation release inside, cover your nose and mouth and go outside immediately. Look for a building or other shelter that has not been damaged and quickly get inside. Once you are inside, close windows and doors, turn off air conditioners, heaters or other ventilation systems. Go as far below ground as possible.
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If you think you have been exposed to radiation, take off your clothes and wash as soon as possible.
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As with any emergency, local authorities may not be able to immediately provide information on what is happening and what you should do. However, you should stay where you are, watch TV, listen to the radio, or check the Internet for official news as it becomes available.
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Remember three factors to limit exposure to radiation: Shielding: A thick shield (thick walls, concrete, bricks, books and earth) between yourself and the radioactive materials provides better protection. Time: The less time exposed the better. |
To prepare for a nuclear explosion, modify your Disaster Supplies Kit so it is adequate for up to two weeks.
Learn More about Radiation |
Learn More about Nuclear Hazards |
Shelter-in-Place-During a Radiation Emergency FAQ (MCHD)  |
Nuclear Threat (Ready America) |
Radiation Threat (Ready America) |
Nuclear Blast (FEMA) |
| Nuclear Power Plants (FEMA) |
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Radiation Emergencies (CDC) |
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Radiation Disasters and Children (American Academy of Pediatrics) |
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| Radiation Protection (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) |
Information is not intended to be a substitute for appropriate medical advice. Links to external sites do not constitute endorsements by Macomb County.
