Generally, the contaminated unit has the most complete knowledge of local conditions and is best
qualified to pick locations.
Consider these key factors when making this decision:
■ A water source
■ Good drainage
■ Off the main route, but with easy access for vehicles
■ Area large enough, 100 sq. meters, to handle Vehicle Washdown and MOPP Gear Exchange
for a squad-size element.
■ Good overhead concealment
Make maximum use of existing facilities, such as car washes and swimming pools. Plan for about 100
gallons of water for each armored personnel carrier. Of course, larger or dirtier vehicles need more
water. The M12A1 can carry 450 gallons to a decon site and hold it there. The LDS with collapsible
bladder, can hold 1,500 gallons, but must be set up and filled up at the decon site.
(1) Adequate Water Source.
Water is the most critical item and the major constraint in accomplishing decontamination operations. A
large quantity of water is needed for an equipment decontamination site. The requirement here is
greater than for a personnel decontamination site. NBC reconnaissance teams try to select
decontamination sites near plentiful water sources, such as lakes, ponds, and dams. Make maximum use
of any existing water facilities in the proposed area, such as car washes or swimming pools.
(2) Good Drainage.
The large quantities of water used necessitate good drainage in the selected area. The site selected
should be accessible to water, however, it must be set up so that runoff will not contaminate surface
water passing through friendly positions. Water runoff from any decontamination operation is collected
in a sump. However, there is always the possibility that the sump will overflow. For this reason, water
used in decontamination operations should be channeled away from the water source. The terrain
should drain away from the source, if possible.
4-7
CM 2506
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