There is no denying that science is a blessing. At the same time it is also true that it can turn out to be very detrimental if used inappropriately.

With the advancement of science our life has changed drastically. Some very positive changes have been brought about in our society owing to the fact that different inventions have shaped our lives. However everything has its brighter sides and darker sides as well. Science is no exception. The endless possibilities of science, if vested in the hands of evil people, can also turn into the prime reason of destruction in our beautiful world. Nuclear bomb is such an awful blessing of science.

A nuclear weapon is an explosive device that derives its destructive force from nuclear reactions, either fission (fission bomb) or a combination of fission and fusion (thermonuclear weapon). Both reactions release vast quantities of energy from relatively small amounts of matter. Such sudden blast can destroy a whole city within a few minutes. Nuclear weapons are widely considered as weapons of mass destruction, and their use and control have been an issue of contention since their inception.

However, experiencing a nuclear bomb attack is definitely a worst nightmare for any of us. And no one can assure you that you will not be a victim of such attack given the situation that present world is full of chaos and confusion. It’s almost impossible to survive a nuclear attack, but even if you survive an initial blast, you must know about some techniques in order to survive the aftermaths of such an attack.

First of all, you must have some ideas about how you will get to know that a nuclear bomb has gone off in your area. Well, if there is a sudden flash of bright white light, then there is no doubt that a nuclear bomb has blasted. In that case you may experience a sudden flash blindness if you are within 50 miles of the blast. But if you are within 10 miles, then you may sustain first-degree to third-degree burns. And of course, you will see mushroom cloud looming over the skyline.

As soon as you realize what’s happening, you should find shelter immediately in order to escape nuclear fallout. Experts recommend that hiding within the most dense building material is the best way to survive. You can even take shelter inside the wooden furniture. Though it will not completely protect you from the exposure to radiation, but this is a good option when you have no other place to hide yourself.

In the meantime while you wait in your hiding place, stay for a while. It is mentionable that you must stay away from the windows and doors. As soon as the nuclear fallout comes to an end come out and take a shower. Remember that while taking a shower use shampoo and soap but do not scrub or scratch your skin. Moreover do not use hair conditioner. When you finish your shower, blow your nose and wipe your eyelids, eyelashes, and ears to remove any leftover material.

Lastly, make sure you only drink bottled water and eat food from sealed containers because anything exposed to radiation can cause serious harms to you. Even collect all your clothing that were exposed to radiation and then put those in a bag, seal it off and throw it away. Finally, take help and get screened for contamination. If you can follow all these, your chances of survival will increase manifold.

(The writer is a columnist.)