Fallout 76: How to Acquire a Gas Mask

Since its rocky launch, Fallout 76 has captured a dedicated following, thanks in part to the successful Fallout TV series and ongoing game updates. The recent Skyline Valley and Milepost Zero expansions have introduced new areas to explore and made the game more accessible for newcomers.

With its enhanced survival mechanics, Fallout 76 requires players to manage not only hunger and thirst but also their health and weapons. Additionally, diseases can affect your Vault Dweller from various sources, including exploration and combat. A gas mask is a crucial item for maintaining your character's health. This guide will help you locate gas masks and explain their importance in keeping your character safe in the wasteland.

Why You Need a Gas Mask

In Fallout 76, diseases can debilitate your character's stats until treated. Certain areas are plagued with toxic air, which can inflict diseases just by exposure.

For example, the Ash Heap region south of Vault 76 suffers from pollution due to old mining operations and fires, potentially causing Sludge Lung. Similarly, the Mire and Cranberry Bog regions, located to the east, have poisonous plants that can spread diseases.

Wearing a gas mask or other face coverings is essential for protecting yourself from toxic air in these areas. The game will alert you when entering a toxic zone, so keeping a gas mask equipped will help prevent these disruptive airborne illnesses. Besides their practical use, gas masks and various helmets offer a distinctive post-apocalyptic style.

Top Gas Mask Locations

For those seeking a reliable stockpile of gas masks, here are some key spots:

Knife Edge: This abandoned raider camp, located east of The Crater, holds four gas masks. The camp is guarded by radscorpions, so proceed with caution. You'll find two masks atop the central tower and another two in the tent behind it on a shelf. This location boasts the highest concentration of masks in one place, making it ideal for stocking up for your entire team.

Additional Noteworthy Locations

You can also find gas masks at the following sites:

Charleston Landfill: Look inside the trailer to the south.

Charleston Fire Department: Check the Overseer’s cache in the main lobby.

Pleasant Valley Ski Resort: Find one next to the vendor bot.

Prickett’s Fort: Locate a mask on a skeleton in a port-a-potty.

Equipped with this knowledge, you'll be well-prepared to face the hazardous environments of Fallout 76 and keep your character in top condition.