Those entering New Orleans 'at own risk'

NEW ORLEANS, Sept. 17 (UPI) -- People entering New Orleans this weekend will be handed a two-page warning that begins: "You are entering at your own risk."

The document, produced by city officials, recommends getting a tetanus vaccine, wearing steel-toed boots and not inhaling mist from pumps or dehumidifiers.

"The sewage system has been compromised" in the wake of Hurricane Katrina and devastating floods, the document says. "Standing water and soil may be seriously contaminated. Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Proceed with extreme caution, especially around downed power lines."

New Orleans City Attorney Sherry Landry said that by issuing the warning, "the city is not going to have any liability" if someone is injured from faulty traffic signals or inadequate emergency rescue services, reported The Washington Post Saturday.

"We do want to offer them the opportunity" to return, she said. "But we want to make sure it's an informed decision."

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Friday found elevated levels of harmful bacteria, gas and oil in 18 samples of the sediment coating large parts of the city.

EPA officials warned Friday to "avoid all contact with sediment." Touching or inhaling the dust and dirt "may cause adverse health effects," said Bill Farland, acting deputy assistant administrator for science.