Smoke From The Fires Is Causing Hazardous Air Quality
Breathing in and inhaling smoke from the wildfires isn’t good for anybody, the air quality in many areas is actually toxic. Those most likely to have more pronounced reactions to the air are those that already suffer from breathing related health issues. This may include people with lung diseases such as asthma or COPD. The outdoor smoke contains very small particles and toxic chemicals in the gases, including carbon monoxide. The toxins can get into your lungs as you breathe and into your eyes. If you are experiencing any health issues due to the poor air quality you should seek refuge indoors. These health issues may include Wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing or headaches. You may also notice that your nose, throat or eyes are irritated. If you have asthma you should take special care to note any of these symptoms.
Here Is How You Can Tell If The Poor Air Quality From The Smoke Is Affecting Your Family
First and foremost the smoke can cause coughing. Your family may complain about a scratchy throat, shortness of breath or irritated sinuses. If you or someone in your family is already suffering from heart or lung disease your typical symptoms may seem worse, it’s likely not your imagination. If you are one of the many locals who suffer from COPD or asthma, you’re already keenly aware of changes in the air quality around you, but the smoke may make that even worse. When smoke levels in the air are high, like right now, even otherwise healthy individuals can have health issues. If you or your family are experiencing any of these symptoms you should contact your health care provider and schedule an appointment to get checked out, if you’re having severe symptoms dial 911 for emergency assistance.
Here’s How You Can Tell If The Smoke Is Causing Air Quality Issues In Your Area
You can check your local air quality here: Washington Air Quality Advisory Map
You can also use this map to follow the locations of the wildfires: Washington State Smoke Information
What Can I Do At Home To Improve My Indoor Air Quality
You can get room air cleaners that use HEPA filters to reduce indoor air pollution. Once the smoke subside you can also schedule to have an air duct cleaning service performed and change the filter in your home at the same time. This will clean out an residual residue that may be floating around in your HVAC system and help get your home back to the best indoor air quality possible.
Additional Air Quality Resources That May Be Helpful For You:
- Current Burn Bans, WA Burn Bans
- Current Fire Danger by County, Department of Natural Resources
- Preparing for Wildfires, Center for Disease Control
- Steps to Reduce Exposure to Extremely High Levels of PM2.5
- Wildfire Locations, (Smoke Blog)
- Wildfire Smoke – A Guide for Public Health Officials (2019) (PDF)
- U.S. EPA, AirNow, Fires and Your Health
- Washington State Department Of Health
We at J&M Services are part of the local community, and our first concern is for our family, friends and neighbors just like you. Please stay safe out there and don’t take any chances with your health or safety.
