Residents of Hazlet and Middletown in New Jersey have concerns about the radiation exposure from the power lines that Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) wants to install. While JCP&L seems to be overlooking those concerns, it looks like residents may have a reason to be worried.

David Carpenter, an independent expert in electromagnetic field radiation, confirms those worries.

On July 20, more than 300 residents of Monmouth County came together at Raritan High School to hear the remarks of Dr. Carpenter. The professor of environmental health sciences at the University of Albany has experience working with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the New York State Department of Health. In his previous experience, he was the Dean of the University at Albany School of Public Health.

“There are many sources of electromagnetic field exposure in our lives,” Dr. Carpenter began his lecture, pointing out that cell phones, microwaves and even hair dryers all emit minor waves of radiation. “But you can control your exposure to those things. If you live in a house that’s less than 100 meters from power lines, you will be exposed to EMF rays 24/7.”

According to Middletown Patch, JCP&L has plans to build “ten miles of high-voltage transmission lines along the North Jersey Coast rail line.” The problem is that, in most cases, these lines are often 200 feet or less, causing exposure to the radiation coming from the lines.

Considering that most users of smartphones keep their phones an inch away from their faces to reduce radiation exposure, it may not matter if you live near a power line.

Dr. Carpenter touched on several studies from Sweden and England during his speech. The studies addressed the increased risk of diseases such as Alzheimer’s and leukemia from constant exposure to radiation from power lines. Others have reported experiencing chronic low-grade headaches after living near power lines.

JCP&L still stands by the claim that their power lines are safe.