The best defense against a chemical attack is constant monitoring with equipment to detect chemical agents as soon as possible. To provide adequate time to take protective measures, commanders should use all available chemical detection equipment.

The protective measures taken by individuals and units when operating under the threat of chemical attack or in a chemical environment are governed by the nature of the threat, mission, situation, and weather. Movement of troops and supplies should be planned so contaminated terrain is avoided to the maximum extent possible. Contaminated terrain is crossed only when absolutely necessary and then as quickly as possible. Preferably, you should move in vehicles at speeds and intervals that minimize contamination. When the situation and mission permit, heavy work-rate activities of personnel dressed in chemical protective clothing and equipment should be minimized. Essential work should be planned for the coolest part of the day, when possible.

Protective Measures before Chemical Attack

In any combat situation, the commander should designate a level of Mission-Oriented Protective Posture (MOPP) for the unit. MOPP is discussed in detail later in this chapter. The following protective measures must be taken before a chemical attack.

EXTENDED WEAR OF PROTECTIVE CLOTHING.- Based on the MOPP level designated by the commander, the individual may have to adapt to requirements for wearing his or her protective clothing and equipment for extended periods. The amount of time required to put all of these items on during a chemical attack exceeds the amount of time required to receive a casualty-producing dose of chemical agent.

M9 CHEMICAL AGENT DETECTOR PAPER.- The M9 chemical agent detector paper (fig. 9-1) detects the presence of liquid chemical agents encountered by the individual. It does NOT detect chemical agent vapors. The paper indicates the presence of a nerve agent (G and V) or a blister agent (H and L) by turning a red or reddish color.

The M9 paper is self-adhesive; you can attach it to most surfaces. When you attach it to clothing, place it on the upper portion of the right arm, left wrist, and either the left or right ankle to allow adequate representation of contamination encountered by the Seabee. When you place it on a piece of equipment, it must be in a location free of dirt, oil, and grease and

Figure 9-1.-M9 chemical agent detector paper.

where it cannot be stepped on. The M9 paper may be used in any weather, in temperatures above 32F or 0C. However, take care not to expose it to extremely high temperatures, scuffs, or certain types of organic liquids and DS2, as they all cause false readings. If spots or streaks on the paper appear pink, red-brown, red-purple, or any shade of red, assume it has been exposed to a chemical agent.

ALERTNESS AND PROFICIENCY.- Individ-uals must remain alert and constantly aware of the chemical threat, especially when duty requirements preclude the wearing of full protective equipment. Individuals must understand the chemical alarms and signals and be proficient in attaining the maximum level of protection when alerted to a chemical attack.

PROTECTION OF INDIVIDUAL EQUIP-MENT.- To the extent possible, individuals must protect equipment and supplies against liquid chemical agent contamination by keeping them organized and covered. Hastily constructed fighting hole covers, ponchos, shelter halves, or other suitable materials can be used for protection. Individuals should wear full protective clothing and equipment when sleeping and, to the extent possible, cover themselves and their equipment before they go to sleep.