What led to duck and cover drills and bomb shelters?

Duck and cover drills and bomb shelters were primarily a response to the Cold War tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union, particularly following the development of nuclear weapons. The fear of a potential nuclear attack during this period prompted government officials to promote civil defense measures aimed at protecting civilians. Educational campaigns, like the famous "Duck and Cover" film featuring a turtle named Bert, aimed to prepare children and families for emergencies. These measures reflected a societal attempt to cope with the pervasive anxiety surrounding nuclear warfare.