Western governments have issued clear warnings and advice on what to do in the event of a nuclear strike, as Russian President Vladimir Putin issues fresh threats from his London embassy.
Concern is growing as the Kremlin delivers fresh warnings of unleashing its stockpile of nuclear weapons against Britain because of the UK's support for Ukraine during the war with Russia. Moscow reacted furiously after discovering British-made long-range drones had been deployed in Ukrainian attacks far within Russian borders, and swiftly issued threats of retaliation.
Russian embassy warning
"The United Kingdom is acting as an accomplice and co-perpetrator of the bloody crimes and terrorist attacks committed by Ukrainian neo-Nazis," the Russian Embassy in London cautioned in a statement on August 17. "London's actions will inevitably carry consequences for which it will have to answer ... The deeper its involvement in the conflict and the greater its support of Kiev's terrorist machinery, the higher the price it will pay."
If Putin makes good on his warnings, the country needs to act fast and there are some key actions Brits could take now to prepare in the unlikely event a strike is launched.
US survival kit guidance
The United States government has released the survival kit you need for a nuclear event. It emphasised you must get inside as quickly as possible and stay there - but you should also shop for the occasion in advance.
It said: "After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water, and other supplies to last for several days. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency."
It also said you should store items in airtight plastic bags and put your "entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag."
What to do during a nuclear explosion
The survival guide said: "If warned of the possibility of a radiation hazard, immediately get inside the nearest building and move away from windows. Put as many walls between you and the outside to protect you from the radiation outside. Nuclear detonations are the most dangerous radiation emergency. It creates a large, deadly blast. If it detonates on the ground, the explosion can suck material up into the air and create dangerous, sand-like, radioactive particles called fallout. For a nuclear explosion, if you have warning, take cover from the blast behind anything that might offer protection. If you are outside, lie face down to protect exposed skin from the heat and flying debris. After the shockwave passes, go inside the nearest building as quickly as possible."
It emphasised that the first 10 minutes after the explosion is the time you have to get inside. The ideal building to shelter in is a multi-story building or a basement. Underground parking garages and subways can also provide good shelter. It is crucial you remain inside for the first 24 hours, after this point radiation levels decrease rapidly.
Essential items for your kit
This is everything you need in your kit: Water: 4.5 litres per person per day; Food: ideally non perishable; Battery-powered radio; Torch; First aid kit; Extra batteries; Whistle; Mask; Plastic sheeting, scissors and duct tape for shelter; Wet wipes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal hygiene; Wrench or pliers; Manual can opener; Local maps; Portable battery charger for phone.
If you want to be fully prepared you could also add: Soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces; Prescription medications; Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives; Prescription glasses and contact lens solution; Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream; Pet food and extra water for your pet; Cash; Passports; Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person; Complete change of clothing; Fire extinguisher; Matches in a waterproof container; Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items; Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils; Paper and pencil; Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children.
