Because contaminated equipment and supplies pose a threat to personnel, covers should be used to protect equipment and supplies stored outdoors, if possible. The following guidance is appropriate for combat, combat support, and combat service support units.

EQUIPMENT.- Important items of equipment must be covered. Plastic sheets serve as excellent covers because they are nonporous. If plastic material is not available, tarpaulins or other suitable material may be used. If nothing else is available, dense foliage will provide some protection.

PACKAGED FOOD ITEMS.- Vapor, aerosol spray, or liquid chemical agents can contaminate food. The type of food, type and amount of agent, and effectiveness of protective measures influence the edibility of food. Food not in protective packages generally presents the major problem. Chemical agents may penetrate packaged food when it is left exposed over an extended period of time.

UNPACKAGED FOOD ITEMS.- Oily and fatty unpackaged foods are particularly vulnerable to chemical contamination. These foods are protected from contamination when stored in containers, such as field iceboxes and refrigerators, if the sealing gaskets are serviceable. As a rule of thumb, CONTAMINATED UNPACKAGED FOOD MUST NOT BE EATEN!

WATER.- Medical personnel are responsible for recommendations on the potability of water. Water that is not in sealed containers may become contaminated. Water suspected of contamination should not be consumed until tested and declared safe.