Protect and Survive

Protect and Survive was the title of a series of brochures and a series of civil defense information films from the British government, which were published in 1980 in order to inform the public about emergency measures in the event of a nuclear attack. The slogan also referred to the other national civil defense program.

Purpose

The booklet and the films contained a number of measures that should be performed automatically by the population in case of a nuclear explosion to allow their survival. These included instructions for proper recognition of the corresponding siren signals ( warning of the attack and before the start of Fallout phase and clear ), for stocking water and food as well as first aid items, the preparation of a " fallout room " (case- out room ) in their own home or your own home and to build a makeshift shelter therein (inner refuge ), which can be made ​​from everyday objects ( such as doors, tables or sand bags ). The educational films contained similar notes as the brochure. The speaker was actor Patrick Allen. They were produced by Richard Taylor Cartoons.

Consequences in the public

After the appearance of the films voices were raised in the UK, who criticized their style as unusual fatalistic, especially as they conjured up an immediate threat of a nuclear war. Because of this effect "Protect and Survive " was recited in a variety of ways within art and popular culture. Known in Germany in particular, based on a lined by Raymond Briggs cartoon film " When the Wind Blows " (Original Title: When the Wind Blows ). Also, there were adaptations as a radio play and play. In addition, the Dubliners have a song titled "Protect and Survive " produced in which it comes to pointless measures in the event of a nuclear attack, which are described in the brochures.