There are a number of measures that can be taken to avoid exposure to lethal chemical agents:
- Countermeasures begin with Detection of the presence of lethal chemical agent.
- Once one is aware that lethal chemical agents are present, one can wear various types of Protective Equipment to guard against exposure to the agent.
- Decontamination of people and equipment makes it safe to remove the protective equipment
- If detection, protection, or decontamination fail, there are a limited number of Antidotes that can be administered.
The Chemical Agent Threat during Desert Storm is an example of how less than effective countermeasures can lead to controversy.