Duck and cover
Meaning
To quickly crouch down and shield one's head and body, typically as a defensive measure during an immediate and sudden threat like an explosion or earthquake.
Origin
In the escalating paranoia of the early Cold War, as the threat of nuclear attack loomed, the U.S. Federal Civil Defense Administration sought a simple, actionable strategy for public safety. In 1951, they released a widely distributed animated public service announcement featuring a cartoon turtle named Bert. This iconic PSA, aimed primarily at schoolchildren, famously taught them the simple yet memorable instruction: to "duck and cover." The phrase became the cornerstone of civil defense drills across America, with generations practicing hiding under desks and against walls, hoping this quick action could protect them from the devastating impact of an atomic blast.
Examples
- When the air raid siren wailed, the children knew to immediately duck and cover under their desks.
- The trainer advised everyone to duck and cover if they felt an earthquake, getting under a sturdy piece of furniture.