Patients who are able may assist with their own decontamination. Remove and double-bag contaminated clothing and all personal belongings. Handle frostbitten skin and eyes with caution. Gently wash exposed skin and hair very thoroughly with mild soap and water (preferably under a shower). Rinse thoroughly with water. Use caution to avoid hypothermia when decontaminating children or the elderly. Use blankets or warmers when appropriate. Flush exposed or irritated eyes with plain water or saline for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses if easily removable without additional trauma to the eye. If pain or injury is evident, continue irrigation while transferring the victim to the Critical Care Area.