Duck and Cover (compilation)

Duck and Cover refers to a civil defense social guidance film of 1951 that aimed to teach schoolchildren how to protect themselves during a nuclear attack. Produced by Archer Productions for the U.S. Federal Civil Defense Administration, the film features Bert the Turtle, an animated character who demonstrates the "duck and cover" technique: when danger is perceived, duck down low to the ground and cover the back of the neck with one's hands.

The film depicts Bert encountering various threats, such as a falling brick, and reacting by quickly utilizing the "duck and cover" maneuver. The film then transitions to live-action scenarios showing children practicing the technique in different settings, such as at school and outdoors. The underlying message was that even if a nuclear attack occurred, individuals could increase their chances of survival by following this simple procedure.

While the film was widely shown in schools throughout the 1950s and 1960s, its effectiveness as a genuine defense strategy against a nuclear blast has been heavily debated. Critics argue that the "duck and cover" method provided a false sense of security and was largely inadequate to protect against the devastating effects of nuclear weapons. The film became a symbol of the Cold War era and the anxieties surrounding the potential for nuclear annihilation. Despite its questionable efficacy, the film remains a significant cultural artifact, reflecting the fears and attitudes of the time. The film is often cited as an example of Cold War propaganda, aiming to reassure the public and promote a sense of preparedness, even in the face of overwhelming danger.