Iran has issued a rare public advisory detailing how citizens should protect themselves in the event of a nuclear explosion, as speculation grows over a possible American strike on the country’s deeply buried nuclear facilities.
The eight-minute educational video, published by Iran’s official news agency IRNA on October 29, provides instructions on seeking shelter, avoiding radioactive contamination and responding to the dangers of a nuclear blast.
The advisory was released during Iran’s Passive Defence Week and comes amid renewed concerns over a possible US military strike on Pickaxe Mountain, a deeply buried nuclear-related site near Natanz.
Iranian emergency officials have advised citizens to seek shelter in basements or sturdy buildings, remain away from windows and switch off air-conditioning systems and ventilation that draw outside air into buildings.
The guidance recommends remaining indoors for at least 24 hours following a potential attack, using packaged food and bottled water, and avoiding vehicles as shelters.
Ebrahim Adelzadeh, deputy director of education and research at the Isfahan Red Crescent Society, said a basement or a room in the central part of a building could provide suitable protection if accessible safely.
Those caught outdoors during an explosion have been advised not to look directly at the flash, to take cover behind a barrier and protect their heads and faces before moving into the nearest sturdy building once the initial blast wave has passed.
The advisory also warns that radioactive particles could travel through the atmosphere, potentially affecting people far beyond the immediate explosion site.
Individuals who may have been exposed to radioactive dust have been instructed to carefully remove outer clothing, place it in sealed bags and wash exposed skin and hair with water and soap.
Officials have also cautioned against taking iodine tablets without medical advice, explaining that stable iodine protects against only certain forms of radioactive exposure.
The video recommends battery-powered radios for official updates, warning that electromagnetic pulses could disrupt electronic equipment and communication systems.
The advisory marks a notable shift from Tehran’s public messaging during the June 2025 Israel-US airstrikes, when officials sought to reassure citizens about radiation risks.
Source: India Today
