VIDEO: NYC launches nuclear attack preparedness PSA

NEW YORK (1010 WINS) -- New York City launched a nuclear attack preparedness public service announcement on Monday, saying it’s best to be prepared even if such a strike is unlikely.

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“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,” the city’s Emergency Management Department said in its announcement.

The PSA encourages New Yorkers to take “key, simple steps in the event of such an incident.”

The 90-second video starts with shots of destroyed city blocks. “So there’s been a nuclear attack,” an announcer says. “Don’t ask me how or why. Just know that the big one has hit. OK. So what do we do?”

NYC Emergency Management released a PSA about nuclear attack preparedness
NYC Emergency Management released a PSA about nuclear attack preparedness. Photo credit NYC Emergency Management

According to the PSA, there are three important steps to take.

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

The second step is to “stay inside” and head into a basement if you have access to one. If you were outside during the nuclear blast, get clean immediately, removing and bagging all outer clothing to keep radioactive dust or ash away from your body.

The PSA encourages New Yorkers to follow three steps in the event of a nuclear blast: "Get inside. Stay inside. Stay tuned"
The PSA encourages New Yorkers to follow three steps in the event of a nuclear blast: "Get inside. Stay inside. Stay tuned." Photo credit NYC Emergency Management

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.

Emergency Management didn’t say if any factor in particular prompted the new PSA, but Commissioner Zach Iscol said 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.”

The PSA comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin made unspecific warnings earlier this year about his country’s nuclear arsenal amid deteriorating relations with the West over Moscow's ongoing war in Ukraine.

Featured Image Photo Credit: NYC Emergency Management