Bulletin: Lassen Public Health Advisory and Air Quality Alert

The Lassen County Department of Public Health has issued an air-quality alert for all areas of Lassen County as of 11:00a.m. Monday.

“Considering current fire conditions across the west coast and local air flow patterns, Lassen County is experiencing diminished air quality,” explains Lassen Public Health Nurse Christi Myers in the alert. “These conditions may persist for several days.”

“We anticipate slight changes with air quality over the next several days so this alert will remain in effect until further notice,” explains Myers. “If conditions worsen for an extended period of time this alert may be upgraded.”

The Health Department offers an air-quality visibility chart and health tips at www.lassencountyhealth.org.

If you smell smoke, or see smoke around you, Myers advises you to consider restricting outdoor activities as the chance of being affected by smoke increases substantially with strenuous or prolonged activity outdoors.

Air quality can change rapidly at different times during the day due to wind shift. It is important to monitor smoke conditions throughout the day and plan outdoor activities accordingly.

Wildfire smoke has harmful chemicals that can affect your health. It can cause eye and throat irritation, coughing and difficulty breathing. Everyone should take precautions to avoid smoke exposure.

• Minimize or stop outdoor activities, especially exercise.
• Stay indoors with windows and doors closed.
• Do not run swamp coolers or fans that bring in outdoor air.

People who are at greatest risk of experiencing symptoms due to smoke include those with chronic lung disease (such as asthma) and/or heart disease, young children, pregnant women, and older adults. If you have symptoms that may have been worsened by smoke exposure, contact your health care provider immediately.

These symptoms include:

• Repeated Cough
• Shortness of Breath
• Difficulty Breathing
• Wheezing
• Chest Tightness or Pain

For more information call Lassen County Public Health at 530-251-8183 or visit the Lassen County Air Pollution Control District at www.lassenair.org