Nuclear, chemical, and biological (NBC) weapons have become potential
realities on any modern battlespace. Recent experience in Afghanistan,
Cambodia, and other areas of conflict has proved the use of chemical and
biological weapons (such as mycotoxins). The warfighting doctrine of the
North Atlantic Treaty Organization and former Warsaw Pact nations addresses
the use of both nuclear and chemical weapons. The potential use of these
weapons intensifies the problems of survival because of the serious dangers
posed by either radioactive fallout or contamination produced by persistent
biological or chemical agents.
You must use special precautions if you expect to survive in these
man-made hazards. If you are subjected to any of the effects of nuclear,
chemical, or biological warfare, the survival procedures recommended in this
chapter may save your life. This chapter presents some background
information on each type of hazard so you may better understand the true
nature of the hazard. Awareness of the hazards, knowledge of this chapter,
and application of common sense can keep you alive.
