On the subject of Gas Masks and the public...

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Hey there. I want to wear a gas mask in public, but am not sure what the legality of it is, since the laws seem a bit vague and contradictory, such as labeling it clearly unlawful if the wearer is being unlawful themself, but also gives it as unlawful if others think you are being unlawful or malicious with an intent to cause harm.

In detail, I live in New York State, but not the city. I went to basic training before being diagnosed with High Functioning Autistic Spectrum Disorder/Asperger's Syndrome. Partially as a result of that, and partially as of my own failings, I was unable to complete training and left. However, I did complete the Gas Chamber portion of the training and was issued a M40 Protection Mask. While wearing it, I noticed that my stress levels were greatly decreased and I felt more alert and refreshed than I normally did. I also managed to snag a great nap, the best I've had in years.

As a result, I wish to purchase the selfsame mask from an online store when I have the funds. I think it'll make me much more at ease amongst the populace, with the plus side of added protection should my paranoia shed any truth. I also want to wear a combat helmet if possible, but that is much easier for me to let go. I shall also wear a ballistic vest under my clothing, which as far as I know is legal, and is not immediately obvious anyway.

Just wanted some help, perhaps in the knowledge of law, as well as how unusual this is, and perhaps if I have any fellow Aspies with the same interests.

Thanks, GrayscaleRainbow

i would like to wear a gasmask when passing smokers.

I don't have a clue. Some places may be made anxious by it, such as banks.

Can I ask though, what makes you less anxious when wearing something like that? I think I became less anxious since I started wearing glasses. I had a theory that it was possibly that I felt more seperate, more safe, with that thin bit of glass between my eyes and the world.

I imagine it would be bad to wear it in any place that doesn't want hoodies. The idea of waring that would make me anxious because I'd stand out more & I wouldn't want to draw any negative attention from law enforcement which would defiantly happen in any government, bus station or high traffic public place.

Well, I wear glasses as well, have for years. I need them so much it feels more like a part of my face, so I no longer have the feeling of security. My vision is something like 20/400, so I'm blind without them, almost legally so. I'm not sure what the gas mask signifies, except that I wish to wear it at all times when in public. I am willing to follow laws so long as they are clear and concise. If they have loopholes and are open to interpretation, that's when I tend to get lost and default to waiting for someone to point out what I missed.

To my knowledge, it is either illegal or looked down upon to wear it in the following places: Hospitals, Banks, Courts, Federal Buildings, Police Stations, Fire Stations, and any Place of Business (cash register). I also plan on following up with the police, and perhaps seeing if I can get permission or a note of reference from a therapist, if at all possible, although they will most likely try to change my behavior instead of doing the most simple and logical thing.

Also, I am one of those Aspies who feels less like they should conform to society, and more that society should meet us halfway. If you didn't get that from my little rant. ^^

It may be legal, but that doesn't mean it's a good idea. It will make other people afraid when they see you wearing it, because they will think there is poisonous gas that you know about and they don't (and therefore, that you were probably the one who released it.) Expect to have the cops called on you whenever you leave the house, and to have to explain yourself to them every time.