Researchers are reportedly planning to release a harmless gas in Manhattan to study how chemicals might disperse in the event of a terrorist attack.

According to Newsday, a time and place have not been set, but the experiment could take place around Madison Square Garden and the Empire State Building.

Scientists from the Brookhaven National Laboratory tell the paper that by combining experimental data with computer models, they might be able to predict the spread of chemicals in an attack. That information would help rescue workers combat the poison and save lives.

Similar tests have been conducted in Oklahoma City and Salt Lake City, but wind patterns between Manhattan's skyscrapers are much less predictable. The study will build on wind tests conducted recently in the West Village, according to Newsday.