I, the undersigned, object to the unrestricted, legal exposure to toxic fumes from hot asphalt roofing tar. The application of roofing tar generates airborne chemicals (PAHs) and particles (PM 2.5) that are known to cause acute to chronic health problems, such as nose, throat, and lung irritation, asthma, emphysema, heart problems, damage to vital organs, and even cancer. Symtoms may be mild to severe and may start within minutes of exposure to fumes. Some citizens have reported symptoms such as sores in the nose, coughs, scratchy throats, headaches, flu-like symptoms, nausea, lung related illnesses such as lung infections, reactive airway disease, and asthma symptoms. We demand that restrictions to this product concerning timing, frequency and duration of application(s), be implemented on or near schools and in residential areas. Conventional asphalt roofing applications should only be allowed with the use of an asphalt kettle utilizing an afterburner, low fuming asphalt, and when all other BEST practices can be followed completely. In addition, we demand that there be a warning system in place before hot tar roofing applications, especially for sensitive groups in the surrounding area, that includes information about the product, possible side effects, what agency to call in case of emergency, how to make a complaint, and/or to report health related symptoms. We want a progression towards the use of existing alternative roofing materials that are not harmful to our environment, our health, and the health of our children. For more info: http://www.nomoretarroofs.info/
