How to Survive a Chemical Attack

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Categories: Health | How Tos

  • In a chemical attack, chemical poisons in liquid, solid, aerosol or vapor form are released with intent to harm others. Survival from a chemical attack will depend on a variety of factors and, only some are under your control. There are steps that you can take, however, to protect yourself during an attack and afterward. This page is a guide on how to survive a chemical attack.

  • Introduction

    • Although there is no reason to worry excessively over chemical attacks, it's important to learn how to react during and after one. If a chemical attack were to happen, it's important to listen to the radio and to follow any instructions given by authorities.
    • The necessary actions will differ depending on the nature of the attack. Authorities have developed plans of action for chemical attacks, but you might not immediately get information or directions, depending on the circumstances.

  • Step 1: Know What to Expect

    Soldiers practice for a chemical attack (Creative Commons photo by UNC - CFC - USFK)
    • Know what to expect and how to recognize a chemical attack.
    1. A chemical attack often causes immediate symptoms, but this is not always the case.
    2. Symptoms can include nausea, breathing difficulties, eye irritation and burning sensations in the respiratory system.FEMA: [http://www.fema.gov/areyouready/chemical_threats.shtm Are You Ready? Chemical Threats>
    3. Most, but not all chemicals will have a smell and taste.
    4. A chemical attack is the intentional use of poisonous chemicals, while a biological attack involves biological weapons such as toxins, bacterias or viruses. For more information on survival strategies for a biological attack, visit Mahalo's guide on How to Survive a Biological Attack.

  • Step 2: Preparing

    • An essential step to surviving a chemical attack is to prepare for it.
    1. Prepare an emergency supply kit. Some items to include are duct tape and plastic to shield windows, food and water supplies, a radio and batteries, a first aid kit, and sanitation products.
    2. Choose a room in your home to seal off and live in during and after an attack (in case it would be needed and you would not be instructed to go outside). It's best if the room does not have air conditioning or windows and doors to the outside and is located highest in the home.
    3. For more information, visit Mahalo's guide to How to Prepare for a Chemical Attack.

  • Step 3: If an Attack Happens

    • If an attack happens, follow instructions on radio closely.
    1. If you are told to stay in your home, close doors and windows and turn of all ventilation.
    2. Go to the room you designated and seal it off with duct tape and plastic.
    3. Remain inside until instructed to leave.
    4. If you are not in a protected area and are near or in a contaminated location, move away and find shelter.
    5. If affected by the chemical attack, seek medical help when possible.
    6. Decontaminate your clothes. Clothes that are usually pulled off over the head should be cut off to avoid contact with the face. Place the clothes in a sealed bag.FEMA: [http://www.fema.gov/areyouready/chemical_threats.shtm Are You Ready? Chemical Threats>
    7. Wash your face gently with soap and water and then rinse. Flush your eyes.FEMA: [http://www.fema.gov/areyouready/chemical_threats.shtm Are You Ready? Chemical Threats>

  • Conclusion

    • Survival from a chemical attack will depend partly on the circumstances, including your location when the attack happens. To increase your chances of survival, prepare for a chemical attack, know what to expect and follow the instruction of authorities closely.


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