Air Quality Issues

September 5, 2017

Due to smoke from wildfires in eastern Humboldt and southern Oregon, you probably have noticed poorer than average air quality around Humboldt. Smoke can cause eye and throat irritation, coughing, and difficulty breathing, especially in those with respiratory diseases (like asthma), heart disease, in young children, and older adults. 

The North Coast Unified Air Quality Management District monitors air quality and issues warnings if air quality is deemed potentially harmful. If you have any concerns, please check for updates on their website  or by calling 1-866-287-6329. 

From their website: "Follow these general precautions to protect your health during a smoke event:

  • Minimize or stop outdoor activities, especially exercise
  • Stay indoors with windows and doors closed as much as possible
  • Do not run fans that bring smoky outdoor air inside – examples include swamp coolers, whole-house fans, and fresh air ventilation systems
  • Run your air-conditioner only if it does not bring smoke in from the outdoors. Change the standard air conditioner filter to a medium or high efficiency filter. If available, use the “re-circulate” or “recycle” setting on the unit
  • Do not smoke, fry food, or do other things that will create indoor air pollution.

If you have lung disease (including asthma) or heart disease, closely monitor your health and contact your doctor if you have symptoms that worsen."

 

Announcement Approvals: