Tear Gas

Tear gas (typically chlorobenzylidenemalononitrile (CS), chloroacetophenone (CN) or dibenzoxazepine (CR) is quite commonly used by law enforcement for crowd control/dispersion. Of these usual types, CN is the more toxic in it's lingering impact and generally referred to as “Mace”. CS is a stronger irritant, but the effects wear off quicker (typically up to 15 minutes), while CR is more common in the UK and is more effective, yet less toxic than CS.

Despite the name, tear gas is technically *not* an actual gas but usually a solid or liquid depending on which particular chemical is used, it's intended method of deployment and container. These containers can vary and can be in the form of a full sized canister for dispersion by hand, grenades for throwing, or shells for firing from a launcher. All chemical forms of these substances cause irritation to the mucous membranes in the eyes, nose, throat and lungs. A stinging or burning sensation produced by contact/inhalation of either can produce excessive eye watering and irritation, coughing, shortness of breath if inhaled into the lungs. Use of a decent respirator mask (N95 or KN95) can help reduce risk and amount of inhalation, while wearing goggles can keep it from contact with eyes. If you're going to a large march type protest, these are both highly recommended to help you avoid exposure.

Regardless of which form you're exposed to, you'll want to make sure you get away from the immediate area where it's dispersing quickly. Don't run away however, because the increased breath rate can cause you to inhale more of it, irritating your lungs. You'll want to get it off any exposed skin quickly with water, and flush eyes with water as well if they've been exposed. If you're wearing a jacket, you should pack that up in a plastic bag after you've left the area. When you get home, hit the shower to wash any residue off, and toss all clothing into the wash.