Recruits are exposed to CS gas, more commonly known as tear gas. Side effects include burning on the skin and in the eyes, and profuse discharge of mucus.
While wearing a gas mask, the recruits spend approximately five minutes inside a gas chamber where CS tablets are burned to create the gas. Recruits break the seals of their masks in order to feel the effects of the gas and to understand how their masks work during exposure. These Marine recruits are being exposed to CS gas, more commonly known as tear gas, to experience its effects and to know how to properly use a gas mask.Gas chamber's important because it builds confidence. Confidence in the gear, confidence in the drill instructors, and then confidence in themselves.
Been there, done that.