I live in a major metropolitan area and I also rely on public transportation. Terrorists love public transportation in major metropolitan areas. To protect against airborne threats, what mask should I carry, what should I use to protect it from being crushed while in my purse and what other protection should I use? The mask needs to be a snug fit or what is the point? As for brand I've been looking at 3M.

Jeanette Isabelle

A search of the forum for N95 found This Gem by yours truly. I don't know any more than what's in the thread, but like I said, you can do much better than N95. I keep a couple Isolation Masks in the glove compartment and one in my backpack. Use a ziplock to keep it clean.

After some careful, initial investigation I'm considering the 3M 8233, N100 masks. I still need a way to prevent them from being crushed when not in use. If a designated protector does not exist, I need an exact size container that would not only prevent a tight squeeze but will also minimize used space.

http://survivalsolution.shopcheckout.com/avian-respirator-n100-p-193.html

Jeanette Isabelle

The link doesn't mention anything about smoke, which would be a major consideration in an emergency on mass transit - especially underground subways. I carry a 3M N95 mask with charcoal impregnation. You can find them in the paint section of Lowe's or Home Depot. In addition, I carry a pair of swim gogles to protect my eyes, and an LED light with a headband.

N95 or N100 respirators are NOT to be used when there isn't enough oxygen, i.e. during a fire. They will however protect one from dust and non-oil aerosols.
There are respirators on the market that are rated for oil containing environments, those will filter out oil-containing aerosls.
I don't know about the charcoal impregnated kind, if they will actually filter out the smoke.
Look at Pandemicflu.gov, one doesn't really need N100 respirators to protect from the flu, N95 will do the trick.

Check for smoke hoods that might fill the need for NBC filtration.

If you're already in the fire, using a respirator type mask will not hurt anything. At least it may make breathing easier even if the oxygen level is marginal. Depending on type, it may cut down on the breathing of toxic gases. Do not use if oxygen is insufficient is a legal warning that the mask will not protect you from everything. If you are trapped by smoke & toxic fumes, anything is worth a try, even the old wet cloth over the nose idea.

Some masks come in flat-fold designs for easier storage. Maybe you could find something suitable for your needs.

If you have a medical supply house near you, maybe they could point you in the right direction.

Sue

"Look at Pandemicflu.gov, one doesn't really need N100 respirators to protect from the flu, N95 will do the trick."

I'm taking a look at the more affordable 3M 8211, N95.

http://survivalsolution.shopcheckout.com/8211-particulate-respirator-p-42.html

Jeanette Isabelle

How well do they fit?

Jeanette Isabelle