NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document
eye and/or respiratory irritation, particularly for those with an underlying pulmonary disease.
Individuals with a history of heart and lung disease, who are in areas where smoke or dust is
visible, are advised to remain indoors with the windows shut. Air conditioners should be put on
“recirculate” mode or turned off. Persons who experience difficulty breathing or chest pain
should seek medical care immediately.
Environmental testing is ongoing to monitor levels of asbestos, dust particulates and other
potentially hazardous materials within the affected site and in other off-site locations. In
addition, issues related to the environment, food and water safety, rodent control, radiation levels
and the health and safety of workers in the area airound the World Trade Center site are
continuously being monitored by the NYCDOH.
There is no threat to the health of the general public from decomposing human remains at
the disaster site. Workers at the site are taking special precautions.
Water Supply
New York City water is normally among the best in the world. The City’s large water
supply, and the steps taken during processing, make it extremely difficult to contaminate.
However, at this time. City, State and Federal agencies are carefully monitoring the water supply
and it is likely that any problems will be rapidly detected. Results to date indicate that the water
supply is safe.
Acute Stress Disorders
All New Yorkers, especially those directly affected by the disaster, those providing care
to the victims and their families and those working in the relief effort, may experience emotional
distress following the events of September 11*. The following American Red Cross and Mental
Health Hotlines can provide direct access to services:
American Red Cross (212)787-1000
English LifeNet (800)543-3638
Spanish LifeNet (877)298-3373
Chinese LifeNet (877)990-8585
New York Methodist Hospital
New York Methodist Hospital has held several routine disaster drills over the past few
years to prepare for the event of a chemical incident. In addition, the Hospital is in contact with
City agencies and the Greater New York Hospital Association, which have been actively
preparing New York City Hospitals to respond to bioterrorism and chemical warfare.
prepared by New York Methodist Hospital
NYC-WTC_000149332
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