Chemical agents are poisonous vapors, aerosols, liquids,
and solids that have toxic effects on people, animals, or plants. They
can be released by bombs or sprayed from aircraft, boats, and vehicles.
They can be used as a liquid to create a hazard to people and the
environment. Some chemical agents may be odorless and tasteless. They
can have an immediate effect (a few seconds to a few minutes) or a
delayed effect (2 to 48 hours). While potentially lethal, chemical
agents are difficult to deliver in lethal concentrations. Outdoors, the
agents often dissipate rapidly. Chemical agents also are difficult to
produce.A chemical attack could come without
warning. Signs of a chemical release include people having difficulty
breathing; experiencing eye irritation; losing coordination; becoming
nauseated; or having a burning sensation in the nose, throat, and lungs.
Also, the presence of many dead insects or birds may indicate a chemical
agent release.
How can I
protect myself from a chemical attack?
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What to do before a chemical attack
What to do during a chemical attack
What to do after a chemical attack
