The latest non lethal or less lethal weapon that the forces are seen using now a days is Phosphorus which causes deep burns and unbearable pain. Recently, a boy was admitted to the hospital after being sprayed with an “unidentified chemical” and had severe facial burns. Turns out, it was phosphorus. Ph is also used by world powers in Syria and Iraq.
WHAT DOES PHOSPHORUS (Ph) DO?
-Dangerous if particles stick to the skin or if its smoke is inhaled
-Deep 2nd to 3rd degree burns which cannot be doused by water
-Tissue damage, multiple organ failure by lodging deep in the body
HOW TO SPOT PHOSPHORUS (Ph)?
-Being sprayed by Ph guns
-Shiny, white smoke
-You notice sudden extreme burning on skin/ irritation in eyes/ irritation in respiratory tract.
WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF PHOSPHORUS (Ph) ATTACK?
-Pour as much water as you can over the affected area. Water is no solution, but helps in easing the pain. Keep the affected area damp with water. Continue pouring.
-Remove all clothes because they might begin to burn too and cause chemical burns.
-Ph particles stick to the skin and as long as they are there, it will continue burning. Remove them. You can either use a lot of water to get them off skin, or someone should remove them using some sharp object. But the person delivering first aid should not touch otherwise they will get burnt too.
-Copper Sulphate can be used to make Ph particles more visible and easier to remove. But it is poisonous and can be fatal if the body absorbs it. Avoid using if you are not sure of the quantity.
-Tetanus injection is crucial.
-Rush the person to the hospital immediately.
The views presented in this article are the Author’s own, and does not in any way depict the views of the Newspaper. This is an Op Ed
Syed Abadi Hamdani
Freelance Writer
Writes About Social, Economical and Environmental Issues
