Chapter 31 – Radioactive Dispersion Device

 

One alternative to a nuclear bomb is a radioactive dispersion device, also known as a dirty bomb. Since nuclear weapons are difficult to make, a dirty bomb is more likely to be used for a terrorist attack. A dirty bomb is a combination of a bomb with radioactive material that’s designed to spread out the radioactive material throughout a general area.

 

The materials used to make a dirty bomb are used commonly and easier to locate than weapons grade uranium or plutonium. A dirty bomb can also cause more casualties from the radioactive material, especially if the wind scatters it throughout a large area. An affected area could be quarantined for months before activity is allowed to return to normal.

 

You’ll be aware of on an explosion in your area, but it will take time for officials to know if the bomb was used to disperse radioactive material. It’s best to assume that it did, and to take shelter immediately. Even if you don’t breath any radioactive material in, based on your proximity to the bomb, you may have some levels of radioactive poisoning.

 

Watch the news or listen to the radio to learn how to proceed to maintain safety during a dirty bomb attack.