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You are probably familiar with some of the stories that have made the news in recent years regarding tear gas. “Tear gas works by releasing an inhalant that infiltrates the mucous membranes,” according to Andrew Whitmarsh, AfterMath’s Operations Safety and Compliance Manager in Aurora, IL. But what exactly is it? What is it made of?
To start, tear gas is not actually a gas at all. In fact, the active chemicals found in tear gas – most commonly synthetic organic halogen compounds – are solid at room temperature. Common compounds found in tear gas include chlorobenzalmalononitrile (CS), chloroacetophenone (CN), both of which are known as mace.
Although tear gas is considered a non-lethal chemical weapon, the immediate effects can be damaging. Those who have been tear gassed often feel a burning sensation on their skin and face, experience difficulty breathing, and have a hard time seeing through the large cloud of gas.
If you have been exposed to tear gas:
- Get out of there! As quickly and calmly as you can, remove yourself from the gas-filled area.
- Face the wind. Fresh air will help blow excess tear gas powder off of you and will prevent it from blowing back into your mouth or eyes.
- Rinse your eyes with cold water. While rinsing your eyes from the inner to the outer corner, avoid allowing the contaminated water to run onto your skin or clothes.
- Rinse your clothing and body with cold water. DO NOT use hot water. Using hot water will open your pores and allow the chemicals to seep further in, resulting in even more skin irritation. DO NOT take a bath – as you will only soak yourself in the chemicals.
Neutralizing a Tear Gassed Scene Should Be Left to Professionals
While the physical effects of tear gas exposure are temporary, the effects the gas has on the scene can be lasting if not properly neutralized.
Unfortunately, because of the complex nature of removing tear gas residue and implementing a neutralizer process, there is no such thing as an easy tear gas remediation job. The removal of teargas is challenging, dangerous and messy. An inexperienced cleanup crew can leave you vulnerable to serious health hazards, potentially causing permanent damage to the heart and liver. Aftermath understands and is trained in complex situations involving tear gas and trauma and our trusted experts and services are routinely referred by law enforcement professionals.
From Harrisburg to Midland, Aftermath provides professional biohazard, crime scene and coronavirus cleanup services to families, employers, and communities. We are dedicated to providing emergency rapid response 24/7/365, so we’ll be there whenever and wherever you need us. When you find yourself asking “What now?”… call Aftermath.
Testimonials
"Exemplary Communication, Care, Attention to detail. This team deployed quickly to a biohazard situation, provided excellent advice and counsel, performed their work with integrity, and were instrumental when helping us with the insurance claim. A+++"
Randy N. - October 11, 2022
"From my initial contact with Jeanine to the final walk through with Jason, Tristan, Marquel and Fritz Aftermath services has been tremendously upfront, kind and compassionate after the death of my sister. During such a difficult time I never would have thought that I would walk away with five new friends. I am forever grateful."
Megan M. - October 10, 2022
"Aftermath Services Manager Christopher and his Assistant Manager Trainee Gabriel took care of my tenants (who was family) apartment swiftly. It was disgusting in there. Will be going back to this company if a situation arises like this in the future. Drive home safe guys and thank you for your hard work."
John I. - October 12, 2022
"I can not thank Cecily and Fernando enough for all the hard work and dedication they exerted to resolve our family crisis. Thank you both very much. You truly care about the families that you serve and it shows."
Joseph T. - September 19, 2022
"Lacey and her team are amazing. We never experienced anything like this they walked us through process explained everything upfront even cost and went above and beyond. They were professional, compassionate and informative from minute they showed up even on a holiday. Sorry to say this hope I never need their services again but if we did Aftermath will be our 1st call. Thank you so much."
Patti B. - September 12, 2022
"The Pasadena Aftermath team did an outstanding job. Not only are they a remarkable team, they are also exceptional individuals. Over the course of the week that they were here, we got to know and trust them. They handled this unthinkable situation with grace, compassion, and the utmost respect for the victims. Words will never be able to truly capture the appreciation we have for them. When our world felt like it was hit with a tsunami, your team threw us a life preserver and told us that we will be okay again.The world needs more “Kevins”, “Jamies”, and “Hassens”, who will help lift the burden off of strangers who are facing their darkest days."
Ashlyn B. - September 5, 2022
"Sterling and Aurelia did much more than clean the scene. They were patient, kind, and very compassionate. They took good care of the property as if it was there own. Sterling and Aurelia communicated with us every step of the way. Their presence alone did much to contribute to the healing process. On top of all that, they did a fantastic job cleaning the house. To be honest, we hated to see them leave. Our family thank them both to the highest degree!!"
Tim F. - August 22, 2022
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