SERA
United States Environmental Protection Agency
Nov 2012
Dealing with Oil Contamination in Homes
On Monday, October 29, Hurricane Sandy impacted many areas throughout the
state of New Jersey and New York. The storm caused flooding conditions along
the coastline, in low lying areas, along rivers and creeks, and various other loca-
tions. The EPA, in support of FEMA, is working closely with federal, state and city
officials in assessing and responding to environmental concerns. Personnel have
been deployed to areas in New York and New Jersey to assess damage to the
EPA's hazardous waste sites, work with the states to assess wastewater and drink-
ing water plants, address oil spills in New Jersey, assess shoreline and near shore
areas using an aircraft, sample coastal waters and provide technical assistance
for dewatering efforts to clear the Battery underpass tunnel in New York City.
These conditions may have caused the release of petroleum-based products or
other environmental hazards into flood waters and surface water bodies. Petro-
leum products may be from localized sources, such as home heating oil tanks
located in basements, or industrial tanks located at petroleum storage facilities.
As the water recedes, residual petroleum materials may be left behind. Odors
may be present where petroleum products have been in contact with lawns,
furniture, carpet, vegetation, building foundations, and most other materials. As
a result, you may notice oil or other petroleum type smells. People can also be
exposed to dangerous chemicals from everyday items such as household clean-
ers, fertilizers, and pesticides that may spill in or near the home during a flood.
Be alert for leaking containers and reactive household chemicals, such as caustic
drain cleaners and chlorine bleach.
HEALTH FAQs
AVOID CONTACT WITH FLOOD WATER,
WHENEVER POSSIBLE!
Why should I avoid contact with flood waters?
Flood waters can pose various health risks.They may contain potentially
dangerous materials such as sewage, agricultural runoff and hazardous
chemicals. Exposure to flood waters can also cause infections or result in in-
juries. Buildings or facilities that have been damaged by or exposed to flood
waters may also pose health risks from mold, chemicals, electrical hazards
and displaced animals, continued on back >
What areas are affected
by Hurricane Sandy?
Flooding is the most common
consequence of the storm, and
many areas throughout New
Jersey and New York have been
affected. In particular, coastal
areas have seen the most impacts.
However, properties in other areas
may have been affected due to in-
dividual property conditions. EPA,
along with other federal, state and
local agencies want people to be
aware of possible threats to human
health and the environment as-
sociated with petroleum products
and other environmental hazards.
What should I do if I have oily
water in my basement?
Should you notice oil or hazard-
ous substances in your basement
along with water, you should not
pump the water onto your lawn or
in the street.
In New Jersey, please contact the
NJDEP Hotline at 1-8778-WARN DEP
or 1-877-927-6337 prior to remov-
ing the water from your basement
or submerged room.
In New York State, please contact
the NYSDEC hotline at
1-800-457-7362.
www.epa.gov/sandy	For more health information please visit the following websites:
http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/floods/
http://www.state.nj.us/health/er/natural.shtml
Or Call the CDC Info Number at 1.800.CDC.INFO (1.800.232.4636)

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HEALTH FAQs (cont.)
What is causing the chemical odor in flood water?
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) found in oil are causing the odor. You can smell most pollutants well below levels that would
cause health problems. Odors will be strongest in areas where oil is present.
Is the odor bad for my health?
It is important to understand that people are able to smell some VOCs at lower levels than would cause long-term health prob-
lems. Some of the chemicals that cause the odors may cause headaches, dizziness, nausea or vomiting. If you have severe nausea
or other medical issues, see your health care provider as soon as possible.
What should I do if I get oil or chemicals on my skin or clothing?
Wash affected skin with soap and water. Avoid using harsh detergents, solvents, or other chemicals to wash oil from skin as they
may promote absorption of the oil thorough the skin. If you get oil on your clothing, wash in the usual way but separate from
other clothing.
How do I know if my drinking water has been affected by flooding?
Contact your local health department for specific advice. Fuel and other chemical releases and spills are common during flood
events. Until you know the water is safe, use bottled water or some other safe supply of water for drinking.

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