Food

(1) Food. Except in rare cases of induced radiation, rations in cans

or other sealed containers are not in danger of radiological contamination.

Normally, the contamination is limited to the outer surface of the sealed

containers. To decontaminate the outer surface, remove the outer packaging

or wash or scrub the container under uncontaminated running water. If food

is not protected in sealed containers, then check for contamination.

Discard contaminated food unless there is no practical alternative. If the

unit commander determines that the food must be decontaminated, move all the

food from the contaminated area to a clean area.

(a) Hard-Skinned Items.

To decontaminate potatoes and hard-

skinned fruits and vegetables, wash or scrub them under uncontaminated

running water.

Peel or scrape them.

Wash them again.

Check for

contamination in creeks and streams. It may have come from a source in the

fallout area.

(b) Meat and Fish. Brush all visible dirt from the meat and the

fish. Washing is not recommended, so remove a thin layer of the meat or the

fish by stripping the surface. After you remove this layer, check it with a

radiac set.

If the dose-rate reading is low, the contamination likely is

confined to the surface. Clean the knife. Remove a second layer. Continue

the cutting-away process, within reason, until the dose-rate reading is near

that of the surrounding environment.

Since prepared foods in open

containers probably will be contaminated, bury or dispose of them as medical

personnel determine. Dispose of radiologically contaminated wash water and

trimmings the same way.

(c) Foods Contaminated by Induced Radiation.

The only way that

you can decontaminate foods that are contaminated by induced radiation is by

aging. Usually, aging requires fewer than 14 days. Carefully monitor these

foods to determine the progress of radioactive decay during aging. However,

the blast and the fire damage to food probably will make it inedible.

(2) Water.

If you suspect that water is contaminated, contact the

water supply specialist who is in charge of the water point that you are

using.

Normally, he is in the supporting DS supply company in the supply

and transport (S&T) company in an MSB. He is responsible for the quality

control of potable water. If there is no approved source of water, ensure

that the available water is inspected.

Use spring water or well water

instead of groundwater. In an emergency, you can decontaminate water that

is contaminated by fallout. Filter the water through successive layers of

leaves, gravel, fine sand, and charcoal. Also, disinfect the water.

QM3511

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