A Temporary Shelter From Chemical Warfare
Having a September 11th situation calls to remembrance the vulnerability everyone felt that day and days ensuing. If family is at home when a disaster strikes it is worthwhile to have identified a room that will protect you as much as possible in the event of a terrorist attack that may involve chemical exposure.
The following considerations should be made: choose a room with no fireplace, unless it has been sealed off previously. The room should have minimal number of windows. Air condition should be shut off. Seal off windows and doors with plastic. Moistened towels that have a 1:9 bleach to water ratio is the only effective moistening substance that would help when using a towel around doors; however, sealing that opening around the door with plastic and duct tape is considered much more effective. The bleach is considered a decontaminating agent for some chemical vapors.
Items to stock as a disater supply kit for chemical exposure: duct tape, plastic roll, protective masks, garbage bags, toilet items, latex or non-latex gloves, flashlights and batteries, radio, enough water for 3 gallons per person per day for at least 3 days, first aid kit, medications, emergency food for 3 days, and chemical suits if you have been able to purchase some, reading material, games, etc.
If you have been exposed, there are a few things you can do at home or office if you are prepared in advance: the clothes that you were wearing have to be removed. Anyone helping to remove them must protect their hands and body while doing so. Chlorinated lime and magnesium oxide mixed together form a solution that helps absorb the chemical agent on the body. Shower the solution off soon after as it can be irritating to skin. In a pinch, talcum powder or flour will absorb the chemical agent, but will not neutralize it. Always get to the doctor as soon as humanly possible after exposure whether on your skin or by inhalation
