Due to flooding and power related shutdowns caused by Hurricane Sandy, wastewater treatment plants and pumping stations have discharged untreated wastewater into New York City waterways. The New York City Department of Health & Mental Hygiene advises that direct contact with the Hudson River, East River, New York Harbor, Jamaica Bay and the Kill Van Kull for recreational activities such as swimming, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing or any other water activity that would entail possible direct contact with the water should be avoided until further notice.
Never use portable generators indoors, in garages or near open windows.
The Health Department is urging New Yorkers to be careful when using portable generators in order to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide poisoning is the most common poison-related cause of hospitalization and death in the wake of hurricanes. It is called the "silent killer" because it causes no odors or symptoms to signal a problem. When people use generators improperly - too close to homes, in garages, or outside bedroom windows - carbon monoxide can seep in and cause illness or death.
Health E-News
Due to flooding and power related shutdowns caused by Hurricane Sandy, wastewater treatment plants and pumping stations have discharged untreated wastewater into New York City waterways. The New York City Department of Health & Mental Hygiene advises that direct contact with the Hudson River, East River, New York Harbor, Jamaica Bay and the Kill Van Kull for recreational activities such as swimming, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing or any other water activity that would entail possible direct contact with the water should be avoided until further notice.
The Health Department is urging New Yorkers to be careful when using portable generators in order to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide poisoning is the most common poison-related cause of hospitalization and death in the wake of hurricanes. It is called the "silent killer" because it causes no odors or symptoms to signal a problem. When people use generators improperly - too close to homes, in garages, or outside bedroom windows - carbon monoxide can seep in and cause illness or death.