Atomic Shelter Survey In Aust.

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30686, 27 February 1965, Page 15

Atomic Shelter Survey In Aust.

(N.Z. Press Association —Copyright) CANBERRA, February 26. Private engineering and architectural consultants will soon begin a search for sites for atomic fall-out shelters in Australian capital cities. The Federal Cabinet has ordered the survey to reveal shelter space in existing buildings if Australia becomes involved in a nuclear war.

Canberra, it is believed, will be used as a “guinea pig” in the survey. The Commonwealth is expected to spend about £50,000 a year for the next three or four years on the work. However, if the strategic position deteriorates, the pace will be increased. Ration Storage The experts will be looking for buildings which can shield occupants from the atomic radiation contained in fallout dust. American surveys have shown that most substantial multi-floored buildings, particularly those with basements, are good shelters. Private industry and commerce will be asked to co-

operate. Property-owners will be asked to allow experts into their buildings. If the buildings are considered suitable the owners will be asked to allow emergency rations to be stored in them. These will consist of cans of water and a specially prepared food concentrate in biscuit form.

The refugees would have to stay in the shelters for about two weeks, until radiation decayed to a tolerable level.