Media Advisory - Christie Administration Urges Residents to Take Safety Measures When Using Portable Generators
PO Box 360 Trenton, NJ 08625-0360
For Release: October 9, 2013
Mary E. O'Dowd, M.P.H. Commissioner
For Further Information Contact: Office of Communications (609) 984-7160
Media Advisory - Christie Administration Urges Residents to Take Safety Measures When Using Portable Generators
New Jersey Poison Information & Education System to Receive Social Services Block Grant Funding
Department of Health Commissioner Mary O'Dowd, Acting Director and State Fire Marshal William Kramer and Dr. Steven Marcus, Executive Director of the New Jersey Poison Information Education & System (NJPIES) will host a press conference at the Toms River Home Depot on Thursday, October 10 at 11:30 a.m. to urge New Jersey residents to protect their health by taking basic safety measures when using portable generators. In New Jersey, 5 people died from Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning due to the improper use of generators after Superstorm Sandy.
During the press conference Commissioner O'Dowd will announce a Social Services Block Grant for NJPIES to enhance its services and training.
In addition to remarks, Fire Marshal Kramer will lead a demonstration and provide safety tips on the proper use of generators. Matt Peterson, Toms River Home Depot Store Manager, will discuss hurricane preparedness and Home Depot's Hurricane Preparedness Workshop initiative. The Home Depot is committed to the communities its stores serve by being a resource for information to keep residents' families and homes safe.
Where/When Toms River Home Depot Thursday, October 10: 11:30 am 1334 Lakewood Road
Who: Mary O'Dowd - Commissioner New Jersey Department of Health William Kramer Jr. - Fire Marshal, Department of Community Affairs Dr. Steven Marcus - Executive and Medical Director, NJPIES Matt Peterson - Store Manager, The Home Depot, Toms River store
Carbon monoxide poisoning is often referred to as the "Silent Killer" because it is a gas that gives no warning - you can't see it, smell it or taste it. Exposure to CO can produce headaches, sleepiness, fatigue, confusion and irritability at low levels. At higher levels, it can result in nausea, vomiting, irregular heartbeat, impaired vision and coordination, and death.
