NYC’s Emergency Management Department Issues Instructions on What to Do in Case of a Nuclear Attack, Ch’vs

By Yehudit Garmaise

The likelihood of a nuclear attack taking place in or near NYC is very low, the city’s Emergency Management Department (EMD) said on Monday, however, “just in case,” chas v’shalom: “New Yorkers need to know the key, simple steps to stay safe,” the department said in a public service announcement.

In a 90-second video that opens with apocalyptic visions of destroyed city blocks, an announcer says, “So there’s been a nuclear attack.

“Don’t ask me how or why. Just know that the big one has hit. OK. So what do we do?”

The first step, EMD said, is to “get inside” of a building fast and move away from any windows.

Next, New Yorkers should “stay inside” and head towards basements, if possible. Those who were outside during a nuclear blast should immediately remove all outer clothing to keep radioactive dust and ash away from their bodies and shower as soon as possible.

The third step is to “stay tuned,” following media for any new information. New Yorkers can sign up for Notify NYC for official alerts and updates at NYC.gov/notifynyc or by calling 311.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, who invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24, has made vague references in recent months to his country’s nuclear arsenal, but as to whether anything, in particular, prompted the EMD’s instructions in case of a nuclear attack, chas v’shalom, the department didn’t say.

Christina Farrell, the first deputy commissioner of Emergency Management, told 1010 WINS that while a nuclear attack is “low probability,” the city wants New Yorkers to feel confident that they know what to do in case of an emergency.

“We know that this material is very serious and can be scary, frankly, but it is very important,” Farrell said. “There is no specific threat at this time.”