If the unit is located in a contaminated area but there is no
detectable vapor hazard, or is in an uncontaminated area but under
constant threat of chemical attack, feeding can be done in the open,
but should be done on a rotational basis allowing about 25 percent of
the unit to unmask at one time. In all of these situations, great
care must be taken to insure that the food has not been contaminated
with chemical agents.
b. Drinking Water.
Troops equipped with protective masks use the drinking device while in
a contaminated area. Normally, drinking from and refilling the
canteen in an area contaminated, with a chemical agent that does not
present a vapor hazard can be done with only minor decontamination of
the canteen cap and the water spigot areas.
In more hazardous areas, arrangements must be made for the delivery of
filled canteens with the caps on in exchange for empty ones that are
collected in the contaminated area. The empties must then be
decontaminated thoroughly before refilling.
c. Sleeping.
Personnel should
sleep in MOPP 4 and under cover. Overhead cover such
as earth-covered
bunkers, foxholes, and bunkers are the best.
However, canvas,
ponchos, and similar material will provide some
protection for a
limited period of time.
The Automatic Chemical Agent Alarm can be used to provide warning of a
chemical attack and give the unit time to sound the alarm and warn
sleeping personnel.
When a unit is under the threat of chemical attack, every precaution
should be taken to insure that soldiers remain protected while
sleeping. This means that the soldier should wear MOPP 4 during this
period. The buddy system must be used to periodically check each
other. Security guards and night duty personnel also can be used for
periodic checks to look for bare skin where protective clothing might
have come loose or crept up.
d. Using the Latrine.
A decontaminated area should be provided, if possible, for troops for
use for the elimination of body wastes. They should also be
instructed in methods of opening, closing, and removal of contaminated
protective clothing to prevent contamination of underclothing or
exposed skin.
2-5
IS0345
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