Tear Gas: How To Protect Yourself & What To Do If It Gets To You
Image via Shutterstock
The death of George Floyd has sparked many protests across the US.
Authorities have resorted to using tear gas to control large crowds in these protests. Though illegal to use in wars, the chemical weapon is allowed in the US when used to “disperse crowds.”
If you plan to take part in a protest, you should be prepared to encounter the gas. According to the CDC website, tear gas is an aerosolized solid or liquid that will irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. If you are exposed to it, you will feel discomfort or pain for 15 to 30 minutes after getting the gas residue off.
Protecting yourself from tear gas
To safeguard yourself from it, you need to wear as much protective gear as possible. Wear a face shield to cover your eyes, nose, and mouth. You can also opt for a face mask and goggles. Do not wear contact lenses as the particles can get trapped when you are exposed to the gas, which can potentially damage your eyes.
Wear clothes that cover most of your skin to protect yourself from the gas. Ensure that the garments are easy to remove, or that you are donning pieces you wouldn’t mind disposing of in the event that you are caught in the gas.
Avoid going to protests in makeup, sunscreen, or any oil-based products on your skin. These products absorb tear gas, as listed by the International News Safety Institute.
Steps to take when you are exposed to tear gas
In the event that you have been gassed, quickly get away from the area where the gas has been released. Find a place to get fresh air, as the air can help to disperse the particles.
Former US Marine chemical defense specialist Danielle Guldin has also shared a series of videos on how to stay safe during a tear gas attack. She mentioned that you should not touch or wipe your face, as doing so can “grind these powder particles” into the tear ducts.
Find a cloth to wrap around the hairline to avoid sweat from dripping into your eyes. This is because water activates chemicals in the gas, which can cause your eyes to burn.
You should also flap your arms to disperse the substance, as recommended by Guldin.
Watch the videos below to learn how to encounter tear gas, or head over to CNET for more information.
@danielleguldin How To Stay Safe During a Tear Gas Attack - From a US Marine ##blacklivesmatter ##justiceforgeorgefloyd ##justiceforbreonnataylor ##justiceforahmaud
♬ original sound - danielleguldin
@danielleguldin How To Stay Safe During a Tear Gas Attack - From a US Marine ##blacklivesmatter ##justiceforgeorgefloyd ##justiceforbreonnataylor ##justiceforahmaud
♬ original sound - danielleguldin
@danielleguldin How To Stay Safe During a Tear Gas Attack - From a US Marine ##blacklivesmatter ##justiceforgeorgefloyd ##justiceforbreonnataylor ##justiceforahmaud
♬ original sound - danielleguldin
@danielleguldin How To Stay Safe During a Tear Gas Attack - From a US Marine ##blacklivesmatter ##justiceforgeorgfloyd ##justiceforbreonnataylor ##justiceforahmaud
♬ original sound - danielleguldin
[via CNET, opening image via Shutterstock]
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