NYC Department of Health air quality advisory, World Trade Center

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document IIO HBOC 111 LlSasi inipjiwww.nyc.gov/htinl/doh/hlml/ajerts/wtcl Jii

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 wal e of the World Trade Center 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 Crater disaster, residents in the vicinity of the World Trade Crater are encouraged to take precautions when they return to their homes.

What are the Recommendationsfor Residents Living in Lower Manhattan? All residents in the immediate vicinity of the World Trade Crater - particularly those who live the area bounded by Warren Street to the North, Broadway to the East, the 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 fi-om entering die home (e.g., remove shoes before entering the home); • Keep winaows closed; • Set the air conditioner to recirculate air (closed vrats), 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 tightness, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Anyone who has difficulty breathing should consult their physicians, especially those with underlying respiratory conditicns. People with asthma may need to increase their usual medical treatment win more frequent use of bronchodilators, and should consult their physicians if necessary.

IfI experience any ^e 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.

What are the health effects ofasbestos? Destruction of the World Trade Center buildings released large amounts of dust and ash* some of which

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