If you are healthy, you're usually not at a major risk from
smoke. Still, it's a good idea to avoid breathing smoke if you
can help it. Smoke is made up of a complex mixture of gases
and fine particles produced when wood and other organic matter
burn. The biggest health threat from smoke comes from fine particles.
These microscopic particles can get into your eyes and respiratory
system, where they can cause health problems such as burning
eyes, runny nose, and illnesses such as bronchitis. Fine particles
also can aggravate chronic heart and lung diseases - and even
are linked to premature deaths in people with these conditions.
How to Protect Your Family from the Health Effects of Smoke
Pay attention to local air quality reports and stay
alert to any news coverage or health warnings related to smoke.
Use common sense. If it looks smoky outside, it's
probably not a good time to mow the lawn or go for a run.
And it's probably not a good time for your children to play
outdoors.
If you are advised to stay indoors, take steps to
keep indoor air as clean as possible. Keep your windows and
doors closed - unless it's extremely hot outside.
Check the Air
Quality Index (AQI) forecast for your area. The AQI,
based on data from local air quality monitors, tells you about
the daily air quality in your area and recommends precautions
you can take to protect your health. As smoke gets worse,
the concentration of particles in the air changes - and so
do the steps you should take to protect yourself. Visit AIRNow
for local forecast and conditions.
Run your air conditioner, if you have one. Keep the
fresh air intake closed and the filter clean to prevent bringing
additional smoke inside. Note: If you don't have an air conditioner,
staying inside with the windows closed may be dangerous in
extremely hot weather. In these cases, seek alternative shelter.
Help keep particle levels inside lower. When smoke
levels are high, try to avoid using anything that burns, such
as wood fireplaces, gas logs, gas stoves - and even candles!
Don't vacuum. That stirs up particles already inside your
home. And don't smoke. That puts even more pollution in your
lungs, and in the lungs of people around you.If you have asthma
or other lung disease, make sure you follow your doctor's
directions about taking your medicines and following your
asthma management plan. Call your doctor if your symptoms
worsen.
If you have heart or lung disease, if you are an older
adult, or if you have children, talk with your doctor
about whether and when you should leave the area. When smoke
is heavy for a prolonged period of time, fine particles can
build up indoors even though you may not be able to see them.
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