In the wake of Superstorm Sandy, cold weather could put people
returning to their homes at risk. Here is a bit about some of
the health risks victims of the storm may face. 1. Carbon
monoxide exposure Dr. Howard Mell, spokesperson for the American
College of Emergency Physicians, lists carbon monoxide exposure
as the No. 1 risk for people returning to their homes. If they
lack power, and the weather is cold, they should stay somewhere
else before risking a fire or carbon monoxide poisoning by using
appliances such as generators or stoves indoors to heat their
homes. "A lot of these injuries come about because some of these
people are in such a rush to get back into their homes," says
Mell. 2. Infections and injuries from floodwaters There are also
possible dangers from bacteria infections, hand and eye
injuries, electrical injuries and mold exposure from
floodwaters. The New York City Department of Health and Mental
Hygiene advises people to take extra precaution around all
floodwaters, especially water that