Firefighters Respond Without Radiation Protection

Firefighters from Chernobyl and Pripyat arrive within minutes, unaware of the extreme radiation levels. They are told the situation is an ordinary fire. Without protective equipment or dosimeters capable of measuring the actual radiation levels, they directly handle radioactive graphite and fight fires on the reactor roof. Within hours, dozens begin exhibiting acute radiation syndrome — vomiting, skin redness, extreme fatigue.