NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document
NYC OOH - Public Health Advisory Concer.. Area of the World Trade Center Disaster httpy/www.nyc.gov/html/doh/html/aJertsAvtcIJii
New York City Department of Health
Response to the World Trade'Center Disaster
Public Health Advisory Concerning Air Quality in the Affected
Area of the World Trade Center Disaster
The NYC Department of Health (DOH), in collaboration with the City, State, and Federal agencies, is
closely monitoring and analyzing air quality data in the wa!:e of the World Trade Cento* disaster.
Following the collapse of the Twin Towers, significant quantities of smoke and dust have been released
into the 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 throat irritation. Because dust will
continue to remain in the air during the 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.
What are the Recommendationsfor Residents LMng in Lower Manhattan?
All residents in the immediate vicinity of the World Trade Center - particularly those who live the area
bounded by Warren Street to the North, Broadway to the East, die Hudson River to the West, and-
Exchange and Thames Streets to the South - should take the following precautions when they return to
their homes;
• Avoid unnecessary outdoor strenuous activity;
• Avoid sweeping or other outdoor maintenance;
• Keep dust from entering the home (e.g., remove shoes before entering the home);
• Keep windows closed;
• Set the air conditioner to recirculate air (closed vents), and clean or change the filter frequently;
What should I do ifI experience respiratory symptoms?
Dust and other particulate matter have the greatest impact on persons with underlying respiratory
conditions. Such individuals may experience chest ti^^tness, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Anyone
who has difficulty breathing should consult their physicians, especially those with underlying respiratory
conditions. People with asthma may need to increase their usual medical treatment with more frequent
use of bronchodilators, and should consult their physicians .^^vessary.
IfJ experience any eye irritation what should J 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.
are the health e/fects ofasbestos?
Destruction of the World Trade Center buildings released large amounts of dust and ash, some of which
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NYC-WTC_000148885
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