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RESOURCES
Huntington Township Chamber of Commerce offers links and info.
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September 13, 2001 According to the Suffolk County Department of Health some Suffolk County residents and school districts are reporting complaints of odors, smoke and dust. Although the events in New York City are probably responsible, other causes should first be ruled out, they say. Nevertheless, in response to those complaints, the DOH will be conducting testing for VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) aldehydes and asbestos at several selected sites. Individuals experiencing breathing difficulties should limit their time outdoors. Some people may suffer from minor conditions such as eye irritation, coughing and sneezing. Others may have more serious symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath or chest pain. Those people should seek medical attention. Because the exposure may occur over a short period of time it is unlikely that exposed individuals will suffer and long-term health effects says DOH officials. They offer the following advice for individuals concerned about respiratory difficulties: Prevent exposure: Limit your exposure to dust in the air by staying indoors as much as possible and when outside avoid heavy activity. Use an air conditioner if available and keep windows closed. Wear masks: Well-fitted masks may reduce dust and smoke exposure but a poorly fitted mask may actually increase exposure by providing a false sense of safety. Recognize symptoms: You may have inhaled smoke from the fire or dust from the buildings. The short-term effects of breathing smoke and dust may include lung irritation, coughing, sneezing, a runny nose and in more severe cases, shortness of breath, dizziness or fainting. People with asthma, other lung conditions or heart disease may be more affected by the dust and smoke and may need to see a healthcare provider. This type of exposure does not cause other typical signs of infections such as rash, fever, headaches, bleeding or diarrhea. Those symptoms require medical attention. Long-term effects: You probably will not have long-term effects from any exposure to dust or smoke from these buildings since your exposure to the irritants is likely to be for a short duration. DOH says studies have shown that people who suffered long-term health effects from breathing smoke or dust had been exposed for years.
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Air Quality
Complaints Being Checked