Вслед за botalex
Это инфа от Чешских докторов на английском языке, про то как обезопасить себя на митинге. Одно примечание, canola oil, которое здесь упоминается это рапсовое масло, его можно заменить подсолнечным. Желающие перевести на русский велком. А так почти все написано у боталекс КАК ВЫЖИТЬ НА АНТИПРАВИТЕЛЬСТВЕННОМ МИТИНГЕ
MEDICAL INFORMATION FROM PRAGUE 2000
The Praha medic team consists of Czech and international activists who
have provided health care in the streets in many cities, including
Seattle, Washington DC, London, Philadelphia, Windsor, Canada and Los
Angeles.
The information provided here is intended to help you prepare in advance
for the action and is not a substitute for the trainings, which are
quite thorough. We strongly advise that at least one person from each
affinity group takes both the first aid training and the protection
against chemical weapons training.
Here is a basic list of supplies to bring for your first aid kit, and to donate to the medical team.
What you bring and wear will largely determine how much fun you have in
the streets, and how long you'll be able to stay there. If you pack
your bag too heavy, that will also limit your mobility and increase your
fatigue. Think ahead, and please check out our little guide to ACTION
FASHION:
WHAT TO WEAR
WHAT TO BRING
ACTION FASHION FAUX PAS
A little information can go a long way towards dispelling myths,
fears and misinformation, so we want to share as widely as possible what
we have learned about tear gas and pepper spray:
PROTECTION AGAINST TEAR GAS AND PEPPER SPRAY, 101
The first thing to remember about exposure to these chemical weapons is
that it is not the worst thing that could happen to you. The hype and
fear surrounding them is enormous, but in reality, if you are careful
and smart, you should survive it with little problem. This information
is the result of conversations with experts, pepper spray trials done by
the Black Cross Health Collective in Portland, Oregon, and our combined
experiences of treating lots of people in various actions, including
the WTO in Seattle, the IMF/WB in DC, and the actions against the
electoral conventions in Philadelphia and Los Angeles.
Unfortunately, we have no direct experience with these chemical weapons
in Europe, so please be aware that this information is based on research
from around the world, but experience only from the US.
What They Are:
Tear gas (also called CS, CN, or CX) and pepper spray (OC) are chemical
compounds that are weapons designed to be used by the military and
police to disperse crowds and subdue individuals. They are mucous
membrane (the inside of your mouth and nose, among other places, are
lined with mucous membranes) and skin irritants. They are mixed with
solvents, and delivered through the use of propellants. Some of these
solvents are registered with the US Environmental Protection Agency as
causing cancer, birth defects and genetic mutations. In Seattle, one
batch of tear gas contained methylene chloride, a highly toxic solvent
which can cause mental confusion, headache, tingling of the limbs, rapid
heartbeat, visual and auditory hallucinations, menstruation cycle
disruption, spontaneous abortion, and varying effects on lungs and the
digestive system.
How They Are Deployed:
Tear gas and pepper spray can be sprayed from small hand-held dispensers
or large fire-extinguisher size tanks. Pepper spray also comes in
plastic projectiles which are fired at the chest to knock the wind out
of a person, who then takes a deep breath, of pepper from the burst
projectile. Tear gas is most commonly deployed via canisters, which are
fired into crowds, sometimes directly at people. It's important that
you know not to pick up the canisters without gloves as they are
extremely hot. Be aware that the time it takes you to throw it will
allow you to be heavily exposed.
How They Affect You:
Both tear gas and pepper spray are skin irritants, causing burning pain
and excess drainage from eyes, nose, mouth and breathing passages.
Pepper spray is more popular with authorities as an agent of control
because of its immediate pain-causing qualities. It is harder to remove
from the skin and has the capacity to cause first degree burns.
If you are exposed to either, you may experience:
The good news is that this is temporary.
Discomfort from tear gas usually disappears after 5-30 minutes, while
the worst pepper spray discomfort may take 20 minutes to 2 hours to
subside. The effects of both diminish sooner with treatment. Because
pepper spray penetrates to the nerve endings, its effects may last for
hours after removal from the skin.
There are many myths about treatment and prevention. Much of this
misinformation is potentially dangerous. Some of it, if applied, could
greatly increase or prolong a person's reaction to exposure, or at the
very least provide a false sense of security.
Prevention:
For most healthy people, the effects of tear gas and pepper spray are
temporary. However, for some people the effects can be long-lasting and
life-threatening.
People with the conditions listed below should be aware of these risks
and may want to try and avoid exposure. Please be aware that in intense
actions, police behavior can be unpredictable, and avoidance is not
always possible.
Conditions:
Protection:
How to deal:
Remedies
We have been doing trials with pepper spray to find good remedies and
have found some things will definitely help minimize the discomfort.
None of these are miracle cures; using these remedies will help people
to feel better faster, but it will still take time.
For the eyes and mouth:
We recommend a solution of half liquid antacid (like Maalox)
and half water. A spray bottle is ideal but a bottle that has a squirt
cap works as well. Always irrigate from the inside corner of the eye
towards the outside, with head tilted back and slightly towards the side
being rinsed. It seems from our trials that it needs to get into the
eye to help. This means that if the sprayed person says it's okay you
should try to open their eye for them. They most likely won't be
able/willing to open it themselves, and opening will cause a temporary
increase in pain, but the solution does help. It works great as a mouth
rinse too.
For the skin:
We recommend canola oil followed by alcohol. Carefully avoiding
the eyes, vigorously wipe the skin that was exposed to the chemical
with a rag or gauze sponge saturated with canola oil. Follow this
immediately with a rubbing of alcohol. Remember that alcohol in the
eyes hurts A LOT. Anyone whose eyes you get alcohol in will not be your
friend.Secondary treatments can include: spitting, blowing your nose,
coughing up mucous (you don't want to swallow these chemicals!), walking
around with your arms outstretched, removing contaminated clothing, and
taking a cool shower. In fact, it is essential to shower and wash your
clothes (this time in real detergents--no eco-friendly stuff here) as
soon as you are able. This shit is toxic, and will continually
contaminate you and everyone around you until you get rid of it. Until
then, try not to touch your eyes or your face, or other people,
furniture, carpets etc. to avoid further contamination.
Remember, it is only temporary, and we are extremely strong.
A FEW HOT TIPS ABOUT GAS MASKS, & OTHER GEAR
The best protection against chemical weapons is a gas mask. The Israeli
gas mask is the best deal (again, we're dealing with US information
here, sorry...) ranging from $10-$20 from mail order or surplus stores.
It accepts a single standard NATO size filter. They are quick to put
on, have good visibility, and are not too heavy. The East German, and
some Russian masks are grey rubber and cover the whole head, including
the ears. They don't fit over large hair, and are slower to put on They
also limit hearing. However they are lighter weight and the (standard
NATO) filter is attached to your body via a hose. The American M17 is a
bit heavy, but has a straw for drinking while masked, and there are
"chemical" hoods available to cover entire head. Prices range from
$25-50. The filters are harder to acquire. Any kind of mask should be
tried on and sized before you're in the streets fumbling with unfamiliar
straps.
When paired with goggles, respirators make an excellent alternative to
gas masks. It is necessary to do some homework beforehand and find
goggles that don't fog up and that fit tightly on your face with the
respirator. Respirators can be purchased at safety supply or welding
supply stores. Ask for filters for particulates and organic chemicals
and tell the clerk what you're filtering to double check. Costs between
$18-24.
THIS JUST IN: some specifications on British respirators, including manufacturer, reference number and cost....
A bandanna soaked in water or vinegar and tied tightly around the nose
and mouth is a last resort. It is far better than nothing, but remember
that it is merely a barrier and not a filter and so won't do much for
long-term protection. You can keep it soaking in a plastic bag until
ready to use. Bring several, as multiple uses will render a bandanna as
gassy as the air around you.
For protecting your eyes, swim goggles work well as they have a tight
seal. Shatter-resistance is another nice quality for goggles to have.
Most goggles have air holes to prevent fogging--fill these with epoxy.
Covering these holes with duct tape can work in a pinch against an
initial attack, though not for long term protection. Try them on with
your respirator or bandanna to ensure that they are compatible and that
both will provide a tight seal.
You should be aware that whatever protection you choose will be visually
quite powerful. Gas masks work the best; they also look quite scary
and intimidating and can be alienating to others. They can also make us
targets of police violence. Think carefully about your impact on others
when you decide how to protect yourself.
FINALLY:
Take care of yourself. If you are grounded, well-rested, fed and
watered, you will have much more fun in the action. Dressing
appropriately and preparing for the weather is key. Think water, comfy
shoes, rain gear/sun protection, more water. Think mobility and comfort.
Think creative energy and sustainability. Remember that we do this
work because it is important and fun, and that at least some danger is
essential to life.
MEDICAL INFORMATION FROM PRAGUE 2000
The Praha medic team consists of Czech and international activists who
have provided health care in the streets in many cities, including
Seattle, Washington DC, London, Philadelphia, Windsor, Canada and Los
Angeles.
The information provided here is intended to help you prepare in advance
for the action and is not a substitute for the trainings, which are
quite thorough. We strongly advise that at least one person from each
affinity group takes both the first aid training and the protection
against chemical weapons training.
Here is a basic list of supplies to bring for your first aid kit, and to donate to the medical team.
- water (as much as you can carry. this is for you and your friends
to drink, for irrigating eyes and wounds, for cooling off. it's worth
its weight--bring lots) - several pairs of vinyl gloves (protect against blood AND pepper spray, latex works but is a common allergen)
- change &/or card for telephone call
- paper, pen, duct tape, marker
- wound care supplies (Band-aids, steri-strips, 2x2 & 4x4 bandages, 1st aid tape, Bactroban or other antiseptic)
- ace bandage
- chemical weapons decontamination supplies (3 small bottles of
canola oil, alcohol, and a solution of liquid antacid/water, 1:1
ratio--this in a spray bottle, lots of gauze sponges or clean rags,
stored in several small plastic bags) - small tampons (good for nose bleeds)
- tongue depressors (for splinting)
- clean shirt in plastic bag (to change into if you get heavily gassed)
- sun screen or rain gear, weather depending
- Emergen-C (or other powdered electrolyte mix)
- Rescue Remedy (good for shock, trauma)
- snacks
- tube of cake icing (or hard candy--good for raising blood sugar)
- aspirin, ibuprofen
- inhaler, epinephrine, benadryl (for those qualified to use them)
What you bring and wear will largely determine how much fun you have in
the streets, and how long you'll be able to stay there. If you pack
your bag too heavy, that will also limit your mobility and increase your
fatigue. Think ahead, and please check out our little guide to ACTION
FASHION:
WHAT TO WEAR
- comfortable, protective shoes that you can run in
- clothing which covers most of your skin to protect from sun and pepper spray exposure
- shatter-resistant eye protection ie: sunglasses, swim goggles, or gas mask
- gas mask or goggles paired with a respirator or bandanna to protect during chemical weapons deployment
- weather-related gear (i.e.: rain gear or sun hat)
- heavy-duty gloves if you plan to handle hot tear gas canisters
- fresh clothes in plastic bag (in case yours get contaminated)
- a cap or hat to protect you from the sun and from chemical weapons
WHAT TO BRING
- lots of water in plastic bottle with squirt or spray top, to drink and to wash off your skin or eyes if needed
- energy snacks
- identification and/or emergency contact information.
- just enough money for pay-phone, food, transportation
- watch, paper, pen for accurate documentation of events, police brutality, injuries
- water- or alcohol-based sunscreen
- your inhaler, epipen, insulin or other medication if you require it
- several days of your prescription medication and doctor's note in case of arrest
- menstrual pads, if needed. Avoid using tampons--if you're
arrested you may not have a chance to change it (tampons left in more
than six hours increase your risk of developing toxic shock syndrome)
ACTION FASHION FAUX PAS
- Don't put vaseline, mineral oil, oil-based sunscreen or moisturizers on skin as they can trap chemicals.
- Don't wear contact lenses, which can trap irritating chemicals underneath.
- Don't wear things which can easily be grabbed (i.e.: dangly earrings or other jewelry, ties, loose hair)
- Don't go to the demo alone if you can help it. It is best to go with an affinity group, or some friends who know you well.
- Don't forget to sleep, eat, and drink lots of water. No matter
how well rested and prepared we are and how tight our plan of action is
with our affinity group, we can never really predict what will happen in
an action, how the police will (over)react to our demonstration, no
matter how peaceful we may be.
A little information can go a long way towards dispelling myths,
fears and misinformation, so we want to share as widely as possible what
we have learned about tear gas and pepper spray:
PROTECTION AGAINST TEAR GAS AND PEPPER SPRAY, 101
The first thing to remember about exposure to these chemical weapons is
that it is not the worst thing that could happen to you. The hype and
fear surrounding them is enormous, but in reality, if you are careful
and smart, you should survive it with little problem. This information
is the result of conversations with experts, pepper spray trials done by
the Black Cross Health Collective in Portland, Oregon, and our combined
experiences of treating lots of people in various actions, including
the WTO in Seattle, the IMF/WB in DC, and the actions against the
electoral conventions in Philadelphia and Los Angeles.
Unfortunately, we have no direct experience with these chemical weapons
in Europe, so please be aware that this information is based on research
from around the world, but experience only from the US.
What They Are:
Tear gas (also called CS, CN, or CX) and pepper spray (OC) are chemical
compounds that are weapons designed to be used by the military and
police to disperse crowds and subdue individuals. They are mucous
membrane (the inside of your mouth and nose, among other places, are
lined with mucous membranes) and skin irritants. They are mixed with
solvents, and delivered through the use of propellants. Some of these
solvents are registered with the US Environmental Protection Agency as
causing cancer, birth defects and genetic mutations. In Seattle, one
batch of tear gas contained methylene chloride, a highly toxic solvent
which can cause mental confusion, headache, tingling of the limbs, rapid
heartbeat, visual and auditory hallucinations, menstruation cycle
disruption, spontaneous abortion, and varying effects on lungs and the
digestive system.
How They Are Deployed:
Tear gas and pepper spray can be sprayed from small hand-held dispensers
or large fire-extinguisher size tanks. Pepper spray also comes in
plastic projectiles which are fired at the chest to knock the wind out
of a person, who then takes a deep breath, of pepper from the burst
projectile. Tear gas is most commonly deployed via canisters, which are
fired into crowds, sometimes directly at people. It's important that
you know not to pick up the canisters without gloves as they are
extremely hot. Be aware that the time it takes you to throw it will
allow you to be heavily exposed.
How They Affect You:
Both tear gas and pepper spray are skin irritants, causing burning pain
and excess drainage from eyes, nose, mouth and breathing passages.
Pepper spray is more popular with authorities as an agent of control
because of its immediate pain-causing qualities. It is harder to remove
from the skin and has the capacity to cause first degree burns.
If you are exposed to either, you may experience:
- stinging, burning in your eyes, nose, mouth and skin
- excessive tearing, causing your vision to blur
- runny nose
- increased salivation
- coughing and difficulty breathing
- disorientation, confusion and sometimes panic
- intense anger from pepper spray exposure is a common response;
this can be useful if you are prepared for it and are able to focus it
towards recovery and returning to the action.
The good news is that this is temporary.
Discomfort from tear gas usually disappears after 5-30 minutes, while
the worst pepper spray discomfort may take 20 minutes to 2 hours to
subside. The effects of both diminish sooner with treatment. Because
pepper spray penetrates to the nerve endings, its effects may last for
hours after removal from the skin.
There are many myths about treatment and prevention. Much of this
misinformation is potentially dangerous. Some of it, if applied, could
greatly increase or prolong a person's reaction to exposure, or at the
very least provide a false sense of security.
Prevention:
For most healthy people, the effects of tear gas and pepper spray are
temporary. However, for some people the effects can be long-lasting and
life-threatening.
People with the conditions listed below should be aware of these risks
and may want to try and avoid exposure. Please be aware that in intense
actions, police behavior can be unpredictable, and avoidance is not
always possible.
Conditions:
- Folks with respiratory diseases, such as asthma, emphysema, etc. risk exacerbation, or permanent damage if exposed.
- Vulnerable people such as infants, the elderly, and the immune
compromised, risk intensified and possibly life-threatening responses. - Anyone with chronic health conditions or those on medications
that weaken the immune system, (ie: chemotherapy, Lupus, HIV, radiation,
or long-term corticosteroids such as prednisone) risk exacerbation of
illness, intensified response and possible delayed recovery. - Women who are or could be pregnant, or who are trying to get
pregnant, may be at risk of spontaneous abortion, or increased risk of
birth defects. - Nursing mothers risk passing toxins on to their infant.
- Folks with skin conditions (ie: severe acne, psoriasis, or
eczema) and eye conditions (ie: conjunctivitis or uveitis) risk an
intensified response. - People wearing contact lenses may experience increased eye
irritation and damage due to chemicals being trapped under the lenses.
Protection:
- Avoid use of oils, lotions and detergents because they can trap the
chemicals and thereby prolong exposure. Wash your clothes, your hair
and your skin beforehand in a detergent-free soap (such as Dr.Bronner's
or most eco-friendly products). - We recommend using a water or alcohol-based sunscreen (rather
than oil-based). If your choice is between oil-based or nothing, we
advocate using the sunscreen. Getting pepper sprayed on top of a
sunburn is not fun. - We also recommend minimizing skin exposure by covering up as
much as possible. This can also protect you from the sun, as can a big
hat. - Gas masks provide the best facial protection, if properly
fitted and sealed. Alternatively, goggles (with shatter-proof lenses),
respirators, even a wet bandana over the nose and mouth will help.
How to deal:
- STAY CALM. Panicking increases the irritation. Breathe slowly and remember it is only temporary.
- If you see it coming or get a warning, put on protective gear, if able, try to move away or get upwind.
- Blow your nose, rinse your mouth, cough and spit. Try not to swallow.
- If you wear contacts, try to remove the lenses or get someone to remove them for you, with CLEAN, uncontaminated fingers.
- DO NOT RUB IT IN.
Remedies
We have been doing trials with pepper spray to find good remedies and
have found some things will definitely help minimize the discomfort.
None of these are miracle cures; using these remedies will help people
to feel better faster, but it will still take time.
For the eyes and mouth:
We recommend a solution of half liquid antacid (like Maalox)
and half water. A spray bottle is ideal but a bottle that has a squirt
cap works as well. Always irrigate from the inside corner of the eye
towards the outside, with head tilted back and slightly towards the side
being rinsed. It seems from our trials that it needs to get into the
eye to help. This means that if the sprayed person says it's okay you
should try to open their eye for them. They most likely won't be
able/willing to open it themselves, and opening will cause a temporary
increase in pain, but the solution does help. It works great as a mouth
rinse too.
For the skin:
We recommend canola oil followed by alcohol. Carefully avoiding
the eyes, vigorously wipe the skin that was exposed to the chemical
with a rag or gauze sponge saturated with canola oil. Follow this
immediately with a rubbing of alcohol. Remember that alcohol in the
eyes hurts A LOT. Anyone whose eyes you get alcohol in will not be your
friend.Secondary treatments can include: spitting, blowing your nose,
coughing up mucous (you don't want to swallow these chemicals!), walking
around with your arms outstretched, removing contaminated clothing, and
taking a cool shower. In fact, it is essential to shower and wash your
clothes (this time in real detergents--no eco-friendly stuff here) as
soon as you are able. This shit is toxic, and will continually
contaminate you and everyone around you until you get rid of it. Until
then, try not to touch your eyes or your face, or other people,
furniture, carpets etc. to avoid further contamination.
Remember, it is only temporary, and we are extremely strong.
A FEW HOT TIPS ABOUT GAS MASKS, & OTHER GEAR
The best protection against chemical weapons is a gas mask. The Israeli
gas mask is the best deal (again, we're dealing with US information
here, sorry...) ranging from $10-$20 from mail order or surplus stores.
It accepts a single standard NATO size filter. They are quick to put
on, have good visibility, and are not too heavy. The East German, and
some Russian masks are grey rubber and cover the whole head, including
the ears. They don't fit over large hair, and are slower to put on They
also limit hearing. However they are lighter weight and the (standard
NATO) filter is attached to your body via a hose. The American M17 is a
bit heavy, but has a straw for drinking while masked, and there are
"chemical" hoods available to cover entire head. Prices range from
$25-50. The filters are harder to acquire. Any kind of mask should be
tried on and sized before you're in the streets fumbling with unfamiliar
straps.
When paired with goggles, respirators make an excellent alternative to
gas masks. It is necessary to do some homework beforehand and find
goggles that don't fog up and that fit tightly on your face with the
respirator. Respirators can be purchased at safety supply or welding
supply stores. Ask for filters for particulates and organic chemicals
and tell the clerk what you're filtering to double check. Costs between
$18-24.
THIS JUST IN: some specifications on British respirators, including manufacturer, reference number and cost....
- Sundstom TPE respirator --medium: 01689, large: 0168 -- 11.95 UK pounds
- CEN P3 filter -- 01656 -- 4.21 UK pounds
- CEN ABE1 filter -- 01671 -- 6.85 UK pounds
- prefilters, pack of 50 -- 01658 -- 9.25 UK pounds
- prefilters extend the life of your filters.
- All prices in UK pounds -- plus (+VAT) value added tax
- There are plenty of other brands from which to choose....
A bandanna soaked in water or vinegar and tied tightly around the nose
and mouth is a last resort. It is far better than nothing, but remember
that it is merely a barrier and not a filter and so won't do much for
long-term protection. You can keep it soaking in a plastic bag until
ready to use. Bring several, as multiple uses will render a bandanna as
gassy as the air around you.
For protecting your eyes, swim goggles work well as they have a tight
seal. Shatter-resistance is another nice quality for goggles to have.
Most goggles have air holes to prevent fogging--fill these with epoxy.
Covering these holes with duct tape can work in a pinch against an
initial attack, though not for long term protection. Try them on with
your respirator or bandanna to ensure that they are compatible and that
both will provide a tight seal.
You should be aware that whatever protection you choose will be visually
quite powerful. Gas masks work the best; they also look quite scary
and intimidating and can be alienating to others. They can also make us
targets of police violence. Think carefully about your impact on others
when you decide how to protect yourself.
FINALLY:
Take care of yourself. If you are grounded, well-rested, fed and
watered, you will have much more fun in the action. Dressing
appropriately and preparing for the weather is key. Think water, comfy
shoes, rain gear/sun protection, more water. Think mobility and comfort.
Think creative energy and sustainability. Remember that we do this
work because it is important and fun, and that at least some danger is
essential to life.