Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) played a crucial role in the context of the Cold War by preparing for potential nuclear accidents and attacks. As tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union escalated, the threat of nuclear warfare loomed large. The REP aimed to establish protocols and plans for protecting civilians from radiation exposure and ensuring public safety in the event of a nuclear emergency. This included education, training, and coordinating responses among federal, state, and local authorities. By prioritizing readiness for radiological incidents, the REP contributed to civil defense efforts during a period marked by anxiety over nuclear proliferation.