High Temperatures and Smoky Air Could Cause Health Problems



Klamath Falls, Or. – Public Health officials urge Klamath County residents to take precautions to avoid health problems during hot, smoking conditions.

"The combination of high temperatures and wildfire smoke in Klamath County may increase the risk of illness especially for people with asthma, respiratory or heart conditions, older adults, and young children," said Marilynn Sutherland, Klamath County Public Health director. Public health officials urge all residents, especially children, older adults and people with lung or heart disease to take the following precautions to avoid health problems:

 Reduce the amount of time spent outdoors. This can usually provide some protection, especially in a tightly closed, air-conditioned house in which the air conditioner can be set to re-circulate air instead of bringing in outdoor air.

 Reduce the amount of time engaged in vigorous outdoor physical activity. This can be an important and effective strategy to lower the dose of inhaled air pollutants and minimize health risks during a smoke event.

 Reduce other sources of indoor air pollution such as burning cigarettes, gas, propane and wood burning stoves and furnaces, and activities such as cooking, burning candles and vacuuming.

 Drink plenty of water or other non-alcohol or decaffeinated fluids to keep cool.

 Individuals with lung disease or respiratory illnesses such as asthma should follow their health care provider’s advice about prevention and treatment of symptoms.

Smoke from wildfires is a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees and other plant materials. Smoke can hurt your eyes, irritate your respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases.

Smoke levels can rise and fall depending on weather factors including wind direction. Klamath County Public Health will continue to release information on our blog (www.klamathairquality.blogspot.com) and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/klamathbasinairquality) as smoke conditions change.