Publication
Duck and Inform: A content analysis of nuclear risk instructional campaigns
In light of the increasing reliance on nuclear power amid global energy and climate challenges, the researchers of this article explore how instructional risk communication can support public safety during nuclear emergencies.
- Author
- Chiara Anfuso, Thanos Chatziioannou, Chloe Hjiantoniou, Tugche Veys, Andrea Bartolucci
- Date
- 21 April 2025
- Links
- Read the full article here
Incidents like the Fukushima disaster and recent threats to Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia plant have reignited global debate over nuclear safety and highlighted the urgent need for effective preparedness strategies.
The paper reviews historical and current nuclear educational campaigns, such as the Cold War-era Duck and Cover, and evaluates their effectiveness using established frameworks like the IDEA model and audience segmentation. While these frameworks are recognised for their value in crisis communication, their application in nuclear campaigns often falls short, showing weaknesses in clarity, consistency, and public engagement.
The authors argue that future campaigns must not only inform but also foster internalisation of protective behaviours, adapt to different audiences, and avoid overly technical language. The study offers practical insights for governments and NGOs seeking to design communication strategies that genuinely prepare populations for nuclear incidents, rather than relying on outdated or overly simplistic messaging.