Artifact Friday: Things to do under Atomic, Biological, or Chemical Attack: 1957

With ice, snow, and inclement weather warnings on the way this weekend, there are lots of things to be cautious and safe about. With all the tips, tricks, and hacks to stay warm and be prepared for the cold weather, there are also some vintage tips and tricks that can help as well.

In a 1957 military order of "Things to Do Under Atomic, Biological, or Chemical Attack", there is an interesting guide on how to survive a nuclear attack in the age of nuclear anxiety. This pamphlet details what the steps should be for someone in the military if a surprise nuclear attack were to happen.

The first steps told are to stay calm, act safe, and follow the recommended procedures for a surprise nuclear attack. The guidelines recommended finding shelter and staying calm above all else; other recommended guidelines from the time were to stay upwind and cover your face to protect from radiation.

This pamphlet tells soldiers to practice self-defense and get prepared for after the nuclear attack, as the initial attack was just the beginning. Another thing stressed was the use of a gas mask; the pamphlet urges the reader to carry their mask at all times and quotes, “your mask can save your life”.

The other half of the pamphlet informs the reader about the different forms of radiation, blasts, and heat levels that will come. What to do in these situations and the effects of it are to follow instructions and continue with the mission.

This guide was created in the time of the "Red Scare", a period where the threat of communism and nuclear war were threats to American ways of life. Many saw these threats as serious and distributed different protection guides for schools, civilians, and the military.

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This artifact is important to remembering the age of the "Red Scare" and how protocols were implemented in many ways of life, especially the military. As we prepare for staying indoors, not all of this information goes to waste. Staying inside, practicing backup plans, and listening to different weather stations can keep you safe and informed during this time.