A civil defense manual first published in 1979 and updated in 2022 is re-emerging with practical advice on surviving a nuclear attack, highlighting that essential supplies can be sourced from everyday materials. The book, "Nuclear War Survival Skills," was written by Cresson Kearny, an engineer and civil defense expert who worked at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
Kearny's guide posits that survival is possible following a nuclear event and depends on acquiring seven critical essentials: shelter from fallout, clean drinking water, non-perishable food, light sources, protective clothing, valuables and documents, and a method for measuring radiation levels. The manual aims to equip ordinary families rather than specialized preppers, suggesting improvised tools can suffice.
Shelter Construction
The book provides detailed plans for constructing an "expedient" shelter using common materials such as dirt, wood, doors, and plastic sheeting. Examples include digging a trench, lining it with plastic, covering it with wooden materials, and piling at least two to three feet of dirt on top for shielding. Tools like shovels, picks, saws, hammers, and polythene film are recommended for building. For multiple occupants, a manual air pump for ventilation is advised.
Water and Food Supplies
Securing clean drinking water is paramount, with recommendations for sturdy containers like plastic jugs or heavy-duty trash bags, storing at least a couple of gallons per person per day. A garden hose can be used for siphoning water from available sources, and a small bottle of household bleach can purify contaminated water by killing bacteria and germs. The guide also advises stocking at least a two-week supply of compact, non-perishable food, with extra provisions for infants and children, such as milk powder, vegetable oil, and sugar. Plans for a power-free grain mill and bucket-stove are included.
Radiation Measurement and Valuables
A crucial element for post-attack safety is the ability to measure radiation levels. Kearny designed a simple, battery-free device using a metal can, aluminum foil, thread, tape, and a ruler. This electroscope-like instrument detects radiation by observing the movement of foil leaves. The updated edition includes information on acquiring modern commercial radiation detection devices. Kearny also emphasized the importance of retaining money, credit cards, negotiable securities, valuable jewelry, and vital documents, anticipating that these items would be necessary for proving identity and facilitating transactions during a period of "nuclear peace."
Lighting and Protective Gear
Essential for interior conditions, lighting can be improvised using candles or homemade oil lamps constructed from glass jars, cooking oil, and cotton wicks. Flashlights and waterproof containers of matches are also recommended. The 2022 update suggests including modern lighting options like LED lights and lithium batteries. Protective clothing, including heavy work clothes, sturdy shoes, and raincoats or ponchos, is advised, with the note that winter clothing could be vital even in warmer months, as such items might become scarce after a crisis.
