DEP advisory to residents regarding WTC dust, Oct 2001

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

NYC Recommendations for Motorists in the Area Affected by the World Trade Center Dis.. Page 2 of 3

Yes. Inspect the engine compartment under the hood of the vehicle. If it is very dusty, wear a dusk mask and use a HEPA vacuum or a conventional vacuum with a HEPA or allergy bag. Pay close attention to the air intake, which can usually be identified by its bellows-like hose. If possible, discormect the hose and vacuum it.

If the vehicle is particularly dusty, you should change the air filter after vacuuming, taking care not to dislodge any remaining dirt that may contaminate the engine. Inspect hoses, belts and pulleys for dirt and try to clean them as thoroughly as possible.

Lastly, check the oil and coolant level before starting the engine. Make sure the battery's terminals are clean. Dirty terminals create extra resistance, putting more strain on the battery, which may be low if the vehicle has not run for some time.

Should I check the tire pressure? Yes. Check tire pressure and add air, if necessary, according to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications.

What do I do when starting the enginefor thefirst time? Only after thoroughly cleaning the car's exterior, interior, and engine should motorists start their cars.

When starting the vehicle, do not race the engine. Let it idle approximately five minutes. Observe the tailpipe to see if any strange-Iooking vapors or materials spew out. The engine may have ingested some dirt that will be discharged when it is first started. If strange noises are heard or smoke is seen, shut the vehicle off and call a professional mechanic to inspect it.

Drive the vehicle slowly at first to make sure it is operating correctly. If so, take the vehicle on a highway so the force of the air can help flush dust and dirt from under the hood and other areas. Only then should the ventilation system be used, first in the recirculation mode to prevent underhood dust fi'om entering the passenger compartment. After five or ten minutes, switch tiie ventilation system to bring in outside air.

As soon as possible, change the oil and oil filter. Any dust or dirt that may have entered the engine will settle in the oil, which should be removed to prevent internal engine damage.

How do I clean my vacuum equipped with a disposable dust bag? Replace the vacuum dust bag, and place the old dust bag in a plastic bag and seal. Afterwards, dispose of the dust bags with your regular garbage.

Wipe the vacuum's exterior, including hose and other exposed parts, with a damp cloth. While still wet, place the damp cloth in a plastic bag, seal and discard with your regular garbage.

How do I clean vacuum that is not equipped with a disposable dust bag? Go outside and carefully empty the dust out of the vacuum dust container into a plastic garbage bag and seal. Discard the garbage bag with your regular garbage.

Wipe the vacuum's exterior, including hose and other exposed parts, with a damp cloth. While still wet, place the cloth in a plastic bag, seal and discard with your regular garbage.

Replace the prefilters on a HEPA vacuum. Check your HEPA cartridge to determine if it needs to be replaced.

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