August 5, 2022
Central Health encourages the public to protect their health when experiencing wildfire smoke and extreme heat together. As the fire and smoky conditions continue, residents are encouraged to contact 811or to see a health care provider if they experience any new or concerning symptoms that they feel could be related to the heat or smoke. In particular, we advise this for people with underlying health conditions such as heart or lung problems, as well as small children, seniors, and people who have been exerting themselves outside for work or sports.
Other recommendations for protecting your health are:
Keep windows and doors closed and stay cool – seal them properly with weather stripping if necessary.
Find clean cool air.
Limit outdoor and strenuous activity – pay attention to air quality and weather forecasts and reschedule outdoor activities for a time when conditions are better.
Stay hydrated – drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, before you feel thirsty to decrease your risk of dehydration.
Care for others – watch out for those who are vulnerable to wildfire smoke and heat (i.e. seniors, pregnant people, infants and young children, people who work outdoors, people with an existing illness or chronic health conditions).
Some people including people who are pregnant, young children, seniors, people with underlying medical conditions, and people who physically exert themselves outside for work or sports, are at higher risk and need to be more careful.
