2.
Preparation to Cross a Chemically or Biologically
Contaminated Area.
When a unit must cross a contaminated area, careful preparations
ensure that soldiers do not become contaminated. If you are directing
your unit to prepare for crossing, you do this:
Step 1.
Direct all soldiers to put on their protective masks
and all protective clothing (MOPP 4), if they have not
already done so.
Step 2.
Direct soldiers to attach strips of M9 Detector Paper
to their helmets and protective clothing and to their
vehicles if used. M9 Paper will change color on
contact with chemical agents, turning a red or reddish
brown color. When attaching it to equipment, soldiers
must place it in an area free from dirt, grease, and
oil. Petroleum products and DS2 cause the paper to
change color.
Step 3.
Direct designated soldiers to have chemical agent
detector kits ready for use.
Step 4.
Select a route that allows for the fastest travel and
avoids low ground where chemical or biological agents
tend to collect.
a. Crossing a Chemically/Biologically Contaminated Area.
Once you have prepared your unit, cross the contaminated area by
doing the following:
Step 1.
If using vehicles to cross the area, close all doors,
windows, and hatches. Direct drivers to go as rapidly
as possible and without stirring up dust that may
contaminate vehicles behind them.
Step 2.
If crossing on foot, direct soldiers to be cautious to
avoid touching anything in the area--vegetation,
bushes, trees, fence posts, or other objects that
might have heavy contamination.
Step 3.
Direct designated personnel to monitor for chemical
agents and to watch the M9 Paper for color changes.
Step 4.
Observe all personnel for symptoms of chemical or
biological agent poisoning.
IS0345
3-16
Previous Page
