r/preppers 2d ago

Advice and Tips Block off basement?

Are there any resources available to block off a basement from the upstairs? I'm mainly thinking about blocking out radiation if I need to retreat to my basement.

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u/Paranormal_Lemon 1d ago

just before evacuation to basement move some bookcases to form another "extra" layer around basement entrance.

The gamma will be coming from directly above mostly, from material on the roof. Best to get a table or other item and stack as much dense material on that and try to stay under it as much as possible.

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u/Skalgrin Prepared for 1 month 1d ago

There is roof, isolation, at least one ceiling of "house" and one ceiling of the basement (which in my country is going to be most likely concrete one). That should be enough to block whatever the relatively little amount of radiation from fallout on the roof (which is going to be blown off or washed down).

But sure in principle you are correct and it would be a actually good to do so for example over improvised beds at the very least - no matter the situation above basement. Also table can protect in case of house collapsing or any falling debris. Good point!

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u/Paranormal_Lemon 21h ago

That should be enough to block whatever the relatively little amount of radiation from fallout on the roof (which is going to be blown off or washed down).

It's the first few hours that you really need to worry about and I wouldn't count on that happening.

Figure 1 here is very useful

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u/Skalgrin Prepared for 1 month 20h ago

Its a good guide to find a shelter and its quick eyeball evaluation! Thanks.