The Armed Forces Special Weapons Project: Self-Preservation in an Atomic Bomb Attack is a 1950 military educational film designed to instruct soldiers on the steps to follow if an atomic bomb is detonated in the United States. Many of the guidelines were also viewed as applicable and instructive for a general audience and civil defense. In the film, simulations help illustrate what to do in such an event. Animations also assist viewers in understanding what radiation is and how to properly shield themselves from radiation, whether they be situated indoors or outdoors during the blast. Note: this film was made in an era prior to the testing of the first h-bomb in 1951. The hydrogen bomb made most if not all of the advice shown in the film instantly obsolete.

The film was produced by Cascade Pictures of California, Inc. in 1950 and is one of a series of motion pictures produced for general information on the subject of atomic weapons defense.

The Armed Forces Special Weapons Project was responsible for the military’s nuclear weapons from 1947 to 1959. In addition to supporting testing and field operations, the agency supported training and preparedness efforts.

(04:45) In a simulation, a soldier is off-base when he hears the warning siren for an atomic bomb go off. He is advised to seek protection underground or if need be in an enclosed room.

(05:49) Footage of London residents in underground bomb shelters during World War II.

(06:35) Damage caused by World War II bombings.

(07:06) A drawing demonstrates how to use heavy material such as reinforced concrete to shield oneself from an atomic bomb blast and heat.

(07:20) The animation shows that this also helps protect against radiation.

(07:47) A demonstration of the different thicknesses of wood, steel, and concrete are needed to shield against radiation.

(08:13) Animation of how radiation scatters and bounces, like a basketball off the backboard.

(08:22) As a result, an ideal shelter would protect people from the top and sides.

(08:34) A soldier asks what to do if caught out in the open.

(08:45) The best strategy in this case is to lie face-down on the ground, as demonstrated by a soldier.

(09:55) The spot directly below the blast is called “ground zero” and is completely destroyed.

(10:04) Anywhere within a mile of the blast, very few structures survive.

(10:39) A model demonstration how hills can shield buildings from blasts

(12:23) The soldier demonstrates how he leaves his shelter once a few minutes elapse after the blast. He will have military duties to perform.

(12:41) The officer warns that an atomic bomb could be quickly followed by another type of bomb, such as a submarine bomb.

(12:54) A simulation shows a blast from a submarine bomb

(13:22) It can cause radioactive, fast-moving fog and mist

(13:44) People should seek shelter to avoid radiation

(14:04) The fog overtakes the city and contaminates everything it touches

(14:31) Once time elapses the radiation becomes less dangerous but soldiers should still cover themselves as much as possible.

(15:44) Radiation detection monitors use devices to detect radiation

(16:04) Clothing might be contaminated as could food and water.

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This film is part of the Periscope Film LLC archive, one of the largest historic military, transportation, and aviation stock footage collections in the USA. Entirely film backed, this material is available for licensing in 24p HD, 2k and 4k. For more information visit http://www.PeriscopeFilm.com