7-4. Conditions for Masking Without Order or Alarm

Table of Contents

• a. Once an attack with a chemical or biological agent is detected or suspected, or information is available that such an agent is about to be used, you must STOP BREATHING and mask immediately. DO NOT WAIT to receive an order or alarm under the following circumstances:
• • • Your position is hit by artillery missiles, rockets that produce vapors, smoke, and mists, and aerial sprays.
  • • Smoke or vapor cloud from an unknown source is present or approaching.
  • • A suspicious odor, liquid, or solid is present.
  • • A chemical or biological warfare agent attack is occurring.
  • • You are entering an area known or suspected of being contaminated.
  • • When casualties are being received from an area where chemical or biological agents have reportedly been used.
  • • You have one or more of the following symptoms:
  • • • An unexplained runny nose.
    • • A sudden unexplained headache.
    • • A feeling of choking or tightness in the chest or throat.
    • • Dimness of vision.
    • • Irritation of the eyes.
    • • Difficulty in or increased rate of breathing without obvious reasons.
    • • Sudden feeling of depression.
    • • Dread, anxiety, or restlessness.
    • • Dizziness or light-headedness.
    • • Slurred speech.
  • • Unexplained laughter or unusual behavior is noted in others.
  • • Numerous unexplained ill personnel.
  • • Service members suddenly collapsing without evident cause.
  • • Animals or birds exhibiting unusual behavior or suddenly dying.
• b. For further information on protection and masking procedures, refer to FM 3-4, FM 4-02.7, FM 8-284, and FM 8-285.