LESSON 4
DECONTAMINATE YOURSELF
4-1.
INSPECT THE DECONTAMINATING LESSON EQUIPMENT
Any person who suspects a chemical agent contamination of the eyes or face
must act immediately. In most cases, you will not be able to identify the agent before
decontamination. You should quickly obtain overhead shelter, protect yourself, and
perform decontamination. Be sure your skin decontamination (decon) kit is ready for
use before and after your mission.
a. Inspect the kit for loose black powder. The kit is mission ready if no powder is
detected. If powder is detected, inspect each packet for leaks.
b. Discard all leaking packets.
c. Reinsert the good packets into the carrying pouch with TEAR LINE at bottom.
NOTE: Request an additional kit if you have fewer than four packets left.
4-2.
PROCEDURES FOR DECONTAMINATING YOUR SKIN
CAUTION:
Keep decontaminating powder out of eyes, cuts, or wounds. Use
water to wash agents from eyes, cuts, or wounds. The complete
decontamination of the face and other areas of exposed skin is
done as quickly as possible, in three minutes or less.
a. Put on your mask and hood. Do not zip the hood. Do not pull the drawstrings.
Do not fasten the shoulder straps.
b. Seek overhead cover or use a poncho for protection against further
c. Remove one skin decon packet from carrying pouch.
d. Tear open quickly at notch and remove applicator pad (see Figure 4-1).
NOTE: Although any notch may be used to open the packet, opening at the TEAR
LINE will place applicator pad in a position that is easier to use.
MD0537
4-2