If caught in the open, drop flat on the ground at once and close your eyes. Cover exposed skin and keep your weapon under your body to avoid loss. If you know the direction of the burst, drop with your head away from the burst. Stay down until the blast wave passes, then check for injuries and equipment damage and prepare to continue the mission. See chapter 2 for additional considerations in the building of your fighting positions.
Radiation is the only direct nuclear effect that lingers after the explosion.
As it cannot be detected by the senses, use radiac equipment to detect its presence. When feasible, move out of the contaminated area. If your unit must stay in the contaminated area, it is best to stay in a dug-in position with overhead cover. When time does not permit constructing a well-prepared overhead cover, use a poncho. Stay under cover.