What is the recommended immediate first aid for eye exposure to OC spray?

• A. Rinse the eyes with clean water for at least 15 minutes and avoid rubbing.
• B. Wipe the eyes dry with a cloth.
• C. Apply ointment to the eyes.
• D. Use eye drops intended for allergies.

Answer: (A)

Immediate decontamination by flushing the eyes with clean water (or saline) for at least 15 minutes is the best first aid for OC spray exposure. This helps dilute and physically remove the irritant from the eye before it causes more damage. Do not rub the eyes, as rubbing can spread the spray and irritate or scratch the cornea. If possible, remove contact lenses during the rinse, but keep rinsing regardless. Wiping the eyes with a cloth or applying ointments or allergy drops won’t remove the spray and can trap the irritant or worsen irritation, so they aren’t appropriate as first aid. After rinsing, seek medical attention if irritation, pain, or vision changes persist.