New York City Emergency Management released a new nuclear attack public service announcement on Monday, despite admitting the likelihood of an attack being “very low.”
The grim video begins with an animated depiction of New York City after a nuclear explosion, including piles of rubble and sirens blaring.
“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? There are three important steps that I want you to remember,” the video’s host states. “Step one: get inside, fast. You, your friends, your family … get inside. And, no, staying in the car is not an option. You need to get into a building and move away from the windows.”
“Step two: stay inside. Shut all doors and windows. Have a basement? Head there. If you don’t have one, get as far into the middle of the building as possible,” she continues. “If you were outside after the blast, get clean immediately. Remove and bag all outer clothing to keep radioactive dust or ash away from your body.”
“Step three: stay tuned. Follow media for more information. Don’t forget to sign up for Notify NYC for official alerts and updates. And don’t go outside until officials say it’s safe. Alright? You’ve got this,” the host adds.
A press release from NYC Emergency Management states that “while the likelihood of a nuclear weapon incident occurring in/near New York City is very low, it is important New Yorkers know the steps to stay safe.”
“New York City Emergency Management has a multitude of free resources for New Yorkers to prepare for emergencies, including no-notice events,” said New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol in a statement. “As the threat landscape continues to evolve, it is important that New Yorkers know we are preparing for any imminent threats and are providing them with the resources they need to stay safe and informed.”
Christina Farrell, the first deputy commissioner of Emergency Management, told 1010 WINS that the probability of a nuclear attack is “low” but if one did occur, it would have “high impact,” so the city wants to be prepared.
“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.”
“Understandably, people report that this is an event that they feel the least prepared for,” she added. “I don’t know if there’s ever a great time to put out a nuclear preparedness PSA, but it is very important, and we want New Yorkers to be prepared—so no time like the present.”
