Expert Advice: Mitigating Nuclear Exposure Risks

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Gregory Bull / AP

An official scans a man for radiation at an emergency center in Koriyama

TIME spoke to John K.C. Leung, a radiation expert at Hong Kong University. He explained the general protocol for those who find themselves at risk of nuclear exposure:

—Stay indoors. The walls will provide some measure of protection from the radiation.

—Shut all the windows and doors and turn off ventilation systems. Breathing inside air is better.

—Keep away from the windows and walls. The further you are away from them, the less radiation you’ll be exposed to.

*Please note, this is general advice. People should heed the advice of local authorities.

(More from TIME.com: Full Coverage of the Japan Earthquake; More on health risks here).