Opinion on Air from "Expert" not Gramps

Blazes bring unhealthy air
http://www.dailybulletin.com/ci_7256605?source%253Dmost_emailed.26978592730A3B8C7F471EACE0DA4EF2.html
Michael Sorba, Staff Writer


A warning to take precautions because of unhealthy air in the Inland Empire was issued Monday by San Bernardino County's Department of Public Health and the South Coast Air Quality Management District.

Concentrations of soot, known as "particulate matter 10," have reached unhealthy levels in many parts of the region, according to a statement from the district.

Particulates are microscopic bits of soot that can reach deep into lung tissue when breathed in, said Sam Atwood, a spokesperson with the air district.

Even small amounts of exposure to the pollutant can be harmful, Atwood said.

RECOMMENDED PRECAUTIONS

The district has recommended the following precautions:

The public should avoid prolonged vigorous outdoor exercise, especially children, teenagers and seniors.

Anyone with heart or lung conditions should avoid all outdoor activity.

Windows should be kept closed and air conditioners should be operating on the recirculation setting, if available. This should reduce some of the larger pollutant particles from entering homes, said Sam Atwood, spokesperson with the district.

The county released a statement advising anyone near a fire to try to avoid respiratory harm:

People with asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and other lung or heart diseases should make sure that they are on medication and have at least a five-day supply on hand, said county health officer Margaret Beed.

People with asthma should consult their physician about an asthma-management plan and stick to it during unusually smoky conditions, Beed said.

Blowing dust, ashes, and other debris can be irritating and dangerous to the eyes. Wear eye protection if outdoors. Even sunglasses can be helpful, Beed said.

If specks of debris get stuck in your eyes, don't rub them. Try to let tears wash the speck out or use eyewash. Try lifting the upper eyelid outward and down over the lower lid. If the speck does not wash out, keep the eye closed, bandage it lightly and see a doctor.

Avoid cooking and vacuuming, which can increase pollutants indoors.

Contact a doctor if you experience symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath or severe fatigue. This is important, even if you haven't been diagnosed with lung or heart disease, Beed said.

Keep airways moist by drinking lots of water. Breathing through a warm, wet washcloth also can help relieve dryness.