Everything You Need to Know About Tear Gas

Everything You Need
to Know About Tear Gas The use of different types of
tear gas goes back to World War I. Modern tear gas is extremely powerful.
A single milligram per cubic meter is all it
takes to cause irritation to a human being. Tear gases can wreak havoc
on the mucous membranes of the
lungs, eyes, nose and mouth. It can cause stinging and
burning sensations along with tearing,
coughing and breathing difficulties. Tear gasses are illegal to use in warfare.
The Chemical Weapons Convention
banned chemical weapons in 1993. The international treaty doesn't address
national domestic use. This means police
can legally use tear gas on citizens. The best way to treat low exposure
to tear gas is to move into clear,
fresh air. Some asthma medications
can also help restore breathing. Skin exposure should be treated
with soap and water. Eyes should be
flushed with a saline solution or sterile water. Protesters in the U.S. have also been using
milk or a mixture of water and baking soda
to flush their faces and eyes.