Air quality in parts of Clark County has reached unhealthy levels because of smoke from wildfires. The Clark County Department of Public Health urged residents to regularly monitor local air quality and take steps to protect their health when the air fills with smog.
According to the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Air Monitoring network, current air quality in Clark County ranges from moderate in Vancouver to unhealthy in northern Clark County. When air quality falls into the unhealthy category, everyone, especially sensitive groups, should limit their time outdoors, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, and take measures to keep indoor air clean.
Public health authorities also recommend keeping children indoors and canceling outdoor sports programs and activities for children when air quality is unhealthy. Schools, childcare facilities, before and after school programmes and youth sports programmes should refer to the National Ministry of Health’s guidelines for protecting children’s health when air is smoky. Organizers of outdoor public events should also consider canceling events if the air is unhealthy.
Breathing smoke from wildfires is not healthy for anyone, but some people are more likely to have health problems when the air quality is poor. Those at risk include children, adults over 65, people with heart and lung disease, respiratory infections and colds, stroke victims, pregnant women and smokers.
When the air is filled with smoke, even healthy people can develop symptoms or health problems. Symptoms may range from mild irritation to life-threatening complications and include:
- A sore throat
- Have a headache
- The burning eyes
- cough
- breathing
- shortness of breath
- Chest pain
People with heart or lung conditions should follow a medical management plan established by their health care provider. If you experience severe symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain, seek medical attention immediately.
When the air is filled with smog, people can take the following steps to improve indoor air quality and protect their health:
Keep Windows and doors closed.
Create a cleaner air room in your home with a portable air purifier with a HEPA filter. Choose a room with no fireplace and few Windows and doors.
Turn on the air conditioner in your home and car to circulate air and avoid bringing outdoor smoke inside.
Don’t pollute the indoor air. Avoid lighting candles, using aerosol products, frying food and smoking.
Do not use a vacuum cleaner unless you are using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. Vacuuming kicks up dust and smoke particles.
If the air in your home cannot be improved, look for indoor shelter or public places where air quality is monitored.
If necessary, use and properly wear respirators marked N95 Masks . Those who have to spend a lot of time outside breathing smoke can wear one of these masks if they wear it correctly. If the mask does not fit properly, it will provide little or no protection and may provide a false sense of security. They are not recommended for children or people with beards. People with lung, heart or chronic conditions should consult their health care provider before using a mask.
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