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Gas masks are probably not as important as they were back during the world wars but today some terrorists have access to chemical weapons like chlorine or mustard gas. Buying a mask can be a little difficult as they aren't really that popular. The cost of one should be about $20 - $30 and a replacement filter should be about $5. You should be prepared for the worst possible event.

[edit] Steps

First get a gas mask. A good place to go to is a army surplus store. To find one in your area just go to Google earth and type army surplus. Note: some army surplus stores don't sell real ones because if they sell real ones and they don't work they could get sued.
Check to make sure that it fits properly. Start talking in it. If it fogs up then it works. If it doesn't, then try another one.
You should also buy some replacement filters.
Check over the mask for any holes or light coloured plastic(wear) on and inside the mask before buying.
To wear it just put your head inside. It may hurt a bit as the rubber can grab at long hair. Make sure that the filters are at the bottom and shake it a bit to make sure it is secure. You should be able to look out through the round eyepieces.
Now for breathing. It may feel tight but that's good. You may start to feel claustrophobic as well as hyper ventilating and if this is the case then remove the mask, wait a while, then put it back on. Next breathe through your mouth and out through your nose. This will minimize the fog that you exhale.
Next read the article about surviving a gas attack below.

[edit] Tips

Some places that air may leak out is around the ears. A way that you can fix this is to stuff some cotton balls into that area.

[edit] Warnings

Some places that sell gas masks may only sell costume ones not real ones. Check to make sure that it's real.
Dont ever put your Gas Mask under water. This will damage the filter. To clean the mask unscrew the filter and use a wet cloth to clean the inside and outside of the mask.
Every year or so put on your mask and make sure it doesn't have any mold or mildew growing inside the filters