What are two types of choking agents commonly recognized?

The two types of choking agents commonly recognized are chlorine gas and phosgene. Choking agents are chemical substances that primarily affect the respiratory system, causing irritation and damage to the lung tissue when inhaled.

Chlorine gas is a well-documented choking agent that can produce severe respiratory distress, leading to difficulty breathing, pulmonary edema, and potentially death when high concentrations are inhaled. It is often associated with industrial accidents and the use of chemical weapons.

Phosgene, although less commonly known by the general public, is another potent choking agent. It is particularly dangerous because its effects can take hours to manifest, often leading individuals to believe they are safe shortly after exposure. Phosgene attacks the lungs, causing severe respiratory failure.

Understanding these agents is critical for recognition and response in scenarios involving chemical exposure, making the identification of chlorine gas and phosgene as choking agents essential in military and healthcare training contexts.