How to Defuse an Atomic Bomb

Atom Bomb Blast

Since its first use in 1945, the atomic bomb has been something to fear. In all likelihood you will never come across an atomic bomb nearing detonation, and there is an even smaller possibility that you will be the most qualified person to stop it from exploding. If these situations do arise, however, knowing how to defuse the bomb could save hundreds of thousands of lives

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hazmat Suit (if possible)
• Gloves (if possible)
• Wire cutters (if possible)
• 2 Metal boxes (if possible)

Defuse an Atomic Bomb

1. Step 1
   Start by disconnecting the wires that connect the detonator to the battery or trigger/timer. You can distinguish the timer because it will be counting down. A battery will look just like a battery, no highly evolved science involved. Be careful when doing this step. If the bomb is booby-trapped, it's likely that the trap involves one of the materials discussed in this step. This is why it is almost always safer to involve the authorities if there is enough time.
   
2. Step 2
   Remove the neutron trigger of the bomb. This will either be a small ball or disc made of some highly radioactive material. This is the part that initiates the explosion. It would be a good idea to have on a Hazmat suit or gloves if you have any. Sit the neutron trigger aside. The bomb still has the capability to detonate, but it will not be as bad as it would have.
   
3. Step 3
   Remove the conventional explosion from the bomb. This is the first part of the bomb that explodes if the bomb detonates. If the conventional explosion was created by the government, it is probably safe to handle. If the devise was improvised, however, it could be highly unstable. Move steady and slow.
   
4. Step 4
   Separate the two small chunks of metal (they will be heavy for their size). These are called U-235 masses, AKA an isotope of uranium. If you allow these two chunks of metal to get too close to each other, they will emit high amounts of radiation and may kill anything (including you) in the vicinity. If these chunks are kept apart, they are fairly harmless. They can even be held without gloves, but once again, if you have gloves, wearing them wouldn't hurt.
   
5. Step 5
   Place the chunks into separate metal boxes if you have any. If not, get the pieces as far from each other as possible. If you haven't already called the authorities, do so immediately and let them know the situation.
   

Tips & Warnings

• Call the authorities as soon as possible.
• Be extremely careful. You cannot try again if you make a mistake.
• If there is enough time for authorities to arrive and defuse the bomb, your best bet may be to make the 911 call on your way out of the building, and consequently, the city.
• These steps should only be undertaken if there is absolutely no time for proper authorities to arrive. If there is enough time for authorities to arrive and defuse the bomb, you may be risking lives by attempting to defuse it yourself.