This post is part of an ongoing series featuring items from the newly acquired Santo Domingo collection.
When I first looked at this cover I thought it was some sort of science-fiction title, but upon further inspection it is actually a guide on what to do in the event of an atomic emergency. The atomic age is often considered to be the period of history after the first atomic bomb was detonated and after the bombings of Japan during World War II. During this time the whole world was rushing to possess this new nuclear technology and it raised a lot of very real fears about what could happen and what the fallout would be. This French publication outlines what they believed to be appropriate actions, helpful tips, and detailed figures in the event of an atomic emergency during the 1950s.
For example Do. Not. Panic. Or as this caption states, there could be a stampede and subsequent trampling. 
Other illustrations display the common equipment one might see during this type of emergency. 
Another figure outlines protective measures one should take if they are surprised by an explosion. They are counseled to jump behind a resistant wall while hiding their faces and hands to avoid burns. Or if possible crouch in a corner of the room to minimize any exposure from the blast.
To learn more check out Atomique secours / Charles André Gibrin. Paris, Charles-Lavauzelle [1953] which can be found at the Widener Library.
Thanks to Alison Harris, Santo Domingo Project Manager for contributing this post