BEINEINU NEWS & NOTES
February 19, 2015
INTERNATIONAL
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning---An entire family in Monsey has been hospitalized due to carbon monoxide poisoning in their home, highlighting the need to be aware of its causes and symptoms.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, tasteless toxic gas. It is produced when any fuel such as natural gas, propane, gasoline, kerosene, wood, or charcoal is burned. Carbon monoxide can build up in enclosed and semi-enclosed spaces, and the results can be deadly. Since carbon monoxide cannot be seen, tasted, or smelled, it can kill quickly or slowly when breathed in. Carbon monoxide can also cause permanent damage to the brain and other parts of the nervous system. People of all ages can be affected, but infants and children are the most vulnerable. Some potential sources that produce carbon monoxide are: gas water heaters, gas stoves and ovens, kerosene heaters, grills, wood and gas fireplaces, portable generators, and automobile engines.
The symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to the flu or food poisoning. They can include:
- Fatigue/sleepiness
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Headache
- Irregular breathing
- Confusion or disorientation
To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Never use fuel-burning equipment (grills, stoves, kerosene heaters, lanterns, generators, lawn mowers, etc.) in enclosed/poorly ventilated spaces (tent, garage, basement, boat cabin, etc.).
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation of fuel-burning appliances.
- A qualified technician should check gas-burning appliances (including hot water heaters and gas dryers) annually.
- Install a UL-approved CO alarm on every level of the home containing sleeping quarters. An alarm is not a substitute for proper use and maintenance of fuel-burning appliances.
- Post the poison hotline number (USA--1-800-222-1222) near phones. Call immediately for possible poisonings, or for poison prevention advice. It is better to ask questions now, than to be sorry later.
USA
Free Mortgage Legal Advice---An attorney will be available to meet with homeowners in Boro Park, Midwood and Bensonhurst who are in danger of losing their homes or have encountered changes in their financial circumstances at Councilman Greenfield’s district office on the last Tuesday of each month. Anyone who needs legal assistance with any mortgage-related issues should schedule an appointment by calling Councilman Greenfield’s office at (718) 853-2704. Residents will have the opportunity to meet with an experienced attorney to discuss credit or budget issues, predatory lending, interest rate issues, late mortgage payments and foreclosure prevention. Please bring two photo identifications, most recent mortgage statement for loan, hardship letter if behind on mortgage payments and all other relevant documents.
Building Blocks Magazine Family Forum---The next issue of Building Blocks special needs magazine will be publishing in March. This is the place to share with other families and professionals who are dealing with special needs. You are invited to write an article of 200-300 words about your experiences for the Family Forum section. All entries should be sent to Eli Stein at
ISRAEL
Important Snow Numbers---Following is a list of numbers that may be useful to Israeli residents during the current heavy snow:
- The Ministry of Education information 1-800-250-025
- Jerusalem City Hall agencies: 106
- Israel Electric Company: 103
- Israel Police: 100
- MDA: 101
- Israel Fire: 102
- Ichud Hatzalah: 1221
- Zaka: 1220
- Yad Sarah: *6444
- Chasdei Naomi: 1-800-677-677
- Ezrat Achim – for emergency transportation call 02-9990000 ext 1 or 0533111310
- During the snow days, Ezrat Achim will run a moadonit (not sure if Jerusalem or Bet Shemesh) for children with special needs. Call for more information: 02-9990000