The UK government has issued guidance on where people should seek shelter if Russia launches a nuclear strike on Britain, following fresh Kremlin threats. The advice, reported by the Daily Star, urges people to take refuge inside buildings made of brick, stone, concrete or similar materials, and to remain indoors for one to two days.
The warnings follow Russian anger over the use of British-made long-range drones in Ukrainian strikes deep inside Russian territory. In a statement on August 17, the Russian Embassy in London accused the UK of acting as an accomplice in what it called "bloody crimes and terrorist attacks" by Ukrainian forces.
Official shelter advice
The government guidance states: "Go into any building as soon as possible. Buildings made of brick, stone, concrete or similar materials provide the best protection, but being inside any building is better than being outside. If you are already inside a building, stay there."
In a nuclear emergency, people are advised to remain indoors, stay away from windows, switch off fans and air conditioning, and close all external doors, windows and vents where possible. The government also stresses the importance of "tuning in" to official updates.
Monitoring official channels
The guidance says: "Monitor the news and follow official UK advice on GOV.UK for what to do next. Any changes to advice will be communicated to you via official sources - this may be via the radio, television, internet, social media or the police."
Emergency services and local authorities will provide information about what has happened and what to do, the guidance adds. People are advised not to evacuate unless told to do so, as leaving shelter may increase radiation exposure.
If a radiation emergency occurs outside the UK, the government says it is unlikely that UK residents will need to act differently, but any official advice will be broadcast on television, radio, internet or social media.
