6-21. IDENTIFY THE SOURCE OF THE CHEMICAL BURN

Chemical burns are caused by contact with either liquid or dry chemicals.

Most burns are caused by a reaction between the chemical and the casualty’s body.

Examples of such chemicals include ammonia, caustic soda, quick-lime and white phosphorus (WP). White phosphorus is a chemical used in marking rounds and grenades that begins to give off heat and light when exposed to air.

NOTE: Burns caused by blister agents are covered in Subcourse MD0534, Chemical, Biological, Radiation, Nuclear, Explosives.

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