U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Dot gov

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Https

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Exposure during chemical attack

Remove all clothing and other items in contact with the body. Cut contaminated clothing off that needs to be removed over the head to avoid contact with eyes, nose and mouth. If possible, put contaminated items in plastic bag and seal. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water. Remove contacts or glasses. Put glasses in pan of household bleach to decontaminate. Flush eyes with lots of water. Gently wash face and hair with soap and water and thoroughly rinse with water. Decontaminate area of the body likely to have been contaminated. Blot (do not swab or scrape) with cloth soaked in soapy water and rinse with clear water. Change into uncontaminated clothes. Listen to local authorities for specific instructions. If possible, proceed to medical facility for screening.

Last Updated: 08/28/2019

Return to top