DEP form document, Oct 2001

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

Health TtUMWTOMCm MMtTMINTefNiAUH

PUBLIC HEALTH ADVISORY CONCERNING AIR QUALITY IN THE AFFECTED AREA OF THE WORLD TRADE CFINTER DISASTER The NYC Department of Health (DOH), in xllaboration with the City, State, and Federal agencies, is closely monitoring and analyzing air quality data in the wake of the World Trade Center disaster. Following the collapse of the Twin Towers, significant quantities of smoke and dust have been released into die air. The plume of smoke contained dust, ash, soot, and other burning materials present at the site. In general, dusts can cause respiratory symptoms and eye and diroat irritation. Because dust will continue to remain in the air during die ensuing clean-up efforts following the World Trade Center disaster, residents in the vicinity of the World Trade Center are encouraged to take precautions when they return to their homes. fVhat are the Recommendationsfor Residents JUvhtg ht Lower Manhattan? All residents in the immediate vicinity of the World Trade Center - particularly those who live the area bounded by Warren Street to die North, Broadway to die East, die Hudson River to die West, and Exchange and Thames Streets to die South - should take &e following precautions when they return to their homes: I Avoid unnecessary outdoor strenuous activity; J Avoid swelling or other outdoor maintenance; 1 Keep dust from entering the home (e.g., remove shoes before entering die home); I Keep windows closed; I Set the air conditioner to recirculate ai' (closed vents), and clean or change the filter frequendy; What should I do ifI experience respiratory symptoms? Dust and other particulate matter have die greatest impact on persons with underlying respiratory conditions. Such individuals may experience chest tightness, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Anyone who has difficulty breat^g should consult dieir physicians, especially those widi underlying respiratory conditions. People widi asthma may need to increase their usual medical treatment wit'* n. re frequent use of bronchodilators, and should consult then physicist' 'I necessary. /fl experience any eye irritation what should I do? Ocular saline solutions or tap water may be used to rinse eyes irritated by dust. All persons should avoid wearing contact lenses while in the affected area.

NYC-WTC_000142251