What Tear Gas and Rubber Bullets Do to the Human Body
1 min read
Summary
Police in Los Angeles used military-style tactics on protesters clashing with law enforcement over immigration raids, including tear gas, flash grenades and pepper-spray projectiles.
So-called “less-lethal” weapons can still cause respiratory problems, head injuries and in some cases, death, and research into their effects is outdated.
Tear gas and pepper spray cause pain and burning to the eyes, skin irritation and coughing, while the use of “pepper balls” can cause blunt trauma or burn injuries, as well as respiratory problems.
Rubber bullets can cause blindness, traumatic brain injury, disfigurement or broken bones and can be lethal, particularly if they hit the neck or face.
To avoid such injuries, wear closed-toe shoes, long sleeves, eye protection and N95 face masks to protests.
