Chemical agents such as tear gas or pepper spray are sometimes used for crowd control during protests or civil disturbances. Children are particularly vulnerable when exposed to chemical agents (ingestion, inhalation, or contact) due to their: 

 

• Closer proximity to the ground 

• Prolonged exposure may go unrecognized in younger or non-verbal children  

 

Moreover, children with underlying medical conditions such as asthma may be particularly at risk. 

Call-to-action: Parents and caregivers can educate themselves about the symptoms of chemical exposure and what to do if they notice symptoms.  

Pre-hospital responders and hospital personnel should be trained and ready to treat patients with potential chemical exposure, especially if the event results in multiple casualties.  

 

 

Access resources today to help keep your kids and communities stay safe during protests and social disturbances. 

Here are some resources to assist caregivers, first responders, and hospital personnel to better understand the impacts of chemical agent exposure on children, recognize the symptoms, and treat chemical exposures in children.