Tear gas, despite its name, is not a gas but an aerosolized powder or liquid compound, most commonly 2-chlorobenzalmalononitrile (CS gas) or chloroacetophenone (CN gas), which functions as a riot control agent. These chemicals are potent irritants, causing immediate and severe pain, excessive tearing, and respiratory distress by targeting nerve receptors in the eyes, skin, and mucous membranes. The primary goal following exposure is to mitigate the temporary but intense effects by removing the chemical irritant from the body and clothing. This guide outlines the immediate, actionable steps necessary for decontamination and symptom management.
Immediate Escape and Respiratory Safety
Move immediately upwind of the source or seek higher ground to limit the amount of chemical particles settling on your skin and in your lungs, as the aerosolized particles often settle close to the ground. Walking, rather than running, is advisable because heavy breathing can increase the inhalation of the irritating particles into the respiratory system.
Avoid rubbing or wiping your eyes, nose, or face while moving, as rubbing pushes chemical particles deeper into the skin’s pores. Focus on airway safety, which may involve breathing through a damp cloth to filter out larger particles. Quickly remove any heavily contaminated items that trap the irritant, such as glasses, contacts, or masks, to prevent further exposure.
Emergency Decontamination Procedures for Skin and Eyes
Once in a safe area, the priority shifts to thorough decontamination of the skin and eyes. The most effective way to address ocular exposure is to flush the eyes copiously with cool water or a saline solution for at least 10 to 15 minutes. When rinsing, ensure the water runs away from the unaffected eye to avoid cross-contamination. Contact lenses must be removed immediately, as they trap the irritant against the cornea; do not attempt to reinsert them.
For skin decontamination, use cool or cold water and a mild, non-oil-based soap or detergent. Cold water is recommended because hot water can open the skin’s pores, potentially increasing the absorption of the chemical irritant, which may prolong or worsen the burning sensation. Vigorously wash all exposed skin, paying particular attention to the hair and scalp, but take care not to spread the irritant to uncontaminated areas of the body.
Avoid applying topical creams, salves, makeup, or oil-based lotions to the irritated skin. Oil-based products can trap the particles against the skin and potentially cause chemical burns. After washing, gently pat the skin dry with a clean towel instead of rubbing, which can reignite the irritation.
Managing Contaminated Clothing and Possessions
Contaminated clothing must be handled carefully to prevent secondary exposure, as the powder residue can remain active for several days. Begin by removing all affected garments, ideally cutting them off rather than pulling them over your head, which avoids dragging the irritants across your face and eyes. Place the clothing immediately into a sealed plastic bag and keep it separate from all other laundry. If possible, hang the contaminated clothes in a well-ventilated, secure outdoor space for up to 48 hours before washing.
When washing, clothes must be laundered separately from any uncontaminated garments, using a long, hot wash cycle with heavy-duty detergent to break down the chemical compounds. Wipe down the washing machine drum after the cycle is complete. Hard, non-porous items that were exposed, such as mobile phones, eyeglasses, or plastic gear, should be cleaned with a solution of soap and water.
These items can trap the residue and cause re-exposure if not properly wiped down. Shoes, particularly the soles, should be removed outside the home and thoroughly cleaned or disposed of, as they can easily track the chemical powder indoors.
When to Seek Professional Medical Care
While the effects of tear gas are typically temporary and resolve within 15 to 30 minutes after successful decontamination, certain symptoms require immediate medical evaluation. Seek attention if you experience severe or persistent respiratory distress, such as chest tightness, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. These symptoms could indicate a severe exacerbation or chemical injury to the lungs.
Immediate medical care is necessary for severe persistent eye pain, changes in vision, or any indication of corneal injury. Look for signs of chemical burns or secondary infections developing on irritated skin that does not improve after initial decontamination.
If symptoms do not resolve within a few hours of thorough cleaning, or if you are concerned about your exposure, contacting a healthcare provider for monitoring and supportive care is advisable.