Officials Share Lessons From Sandy At Holy Name Medical Center Forum

Add deadly carbon monoxide poisoning from improperly vented generators and toxic mold to the many health hazards visited on the state by Hurricane Sandy. That helps explain why healthcare providers from New Jersey's first responders to the state’s top health official are looking to identify and apply lessons learned to head off similar crises during the next bout of extreme weather.

Sandy will have a lasting effect on how the state prepares for the future, Health Commissioner Mary E. O’Dowd said after completing a round of forums with healthcare officials and emergency responders.

One major change: The state will take steps in future disasters to make sure that residents are informed on how to operate electric generators before a storm hits and power outages sever communication links.

Continue reading at NJSpotlight.com

NJ Spotlight is an issue-driven news website that provides critical insight to New Jersey’s communities and businesses. It is non-partisan, independent, policy-centered and community-minded.

Follow Patch on Twitter, Facebook and click to sign up for News Alerts. News tip? E-mail teaneck@patch.com