Air Quality Improves in Orange County
But Some Areas Still Impacted by Smoke from Freeway Complex Fire
For
Immediate Release: November 18, 2008
Contact: Howard Sutter (714) 834-2178
(Santa Ana) - The South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) says air quality may still reach Unhealthy levels in North Orange County today, although air quality across the region has improved significantly with greater control of the recent wildfires including the Freeway Complex Fire.
The latest AQMD forecast states that air quality may reach Unhealthy levels in areas that are still directly impacted by smoke. Areas that are farther from the active burning may still experience periods of air quality in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups range, or higher, when impacted by smoke. All individuals are urged to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities in any area directly impacted by smoke. This includes areas where residents can see or smell smoke.
“While we are thankful that air quality is improving, there are still areas near the fire zones where Unhealthy air quality remains a concern,” said Dr. Eric Handler, County Health Officer. “In addition, those who have reentered the fire areas and are working in soot and ash should use respiratory protection, such as particulate filtering masks, to protect their health.”
If you are in an area that is still directly impacted by smoke, you should avoid vigorous exertion. In these same areas, people with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly, and children should remain indoors as much as possible. Keep your windows and doors closed unless it is extremely hot inside. If indoor temperatures are an issue, visit a public facility that is air conditioned, such as a library or community center, or visit a shopping mall or other public location that is climate-controlled. At home, run your air conditioner if you have one. Keep the fresh air intake closed and the filter clean to prevent bringing additional smoke inside. In your car, run your air conditioner on re-circulation mode.
Air pollution levels from fires can change rapidly, depending on weather conditions, so individuals in high-risk groups should take precautions until the fires have been fully extinguished. Additional information about the health impacts of wildfire smoke can be found on the AQMD website at
www.aqmd.gov.
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