For Immediate Release
Monday, February 6, 2006

Contact: Howard Sutter
 (714) 834-2178

Wildfire Smoke Poses Public Health Danger

(Santa Ana) – Smoke drifting from the wildfires in Northeastern Orange County may pose a health danger to individuals in Orange County, especially those in certain high-risk groups.

“Among those who can be most directly affected by smoke exposure are individuals with heart and respiratory diseases, older adults, children and pregnant women,” said Acting County Health Officer Dr. Hildy Meyers. “Air pollution levels from the fire can change rapidly, depending on weather conditions, so we recommend that individuals in these high-risk groups take precautions until the situation is over.”

Those who live, work or attend school in areas downwind from the fire should limit outdoor activity and physical exertion until the smoke diminishes. Other recommendations include:

• Keeping the windows and doors in your home closed, and using your air conditioner on the re-circulate mode if a choice of air sources is available. This will limit the intake of outdoor air and keep your home comfortable.
• Keeping your mouth and nasal passageways moist by drinking lots of water. This helps your body filter out potentially harmful particles in the smoke.
• Contacting your doctor if you have symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or severe fatigue. People who have not been previously diagnosed with lung or heart disease may begin having problems in smoky conditions.
• Making sure those with asthma follow an asthma management plan and have at least a five-day supply of medication on hand.

# # #