CONTACT: Tom Sharp
Harney County Public
Health Department
Phone 541-589-2423
541-589-2423
541-589-2423
Thursday,
July 17, 2014
Harney County Wildfire
Smoke Alert
The “Buzzard Complex” wildfire burning
in eastern Harney County has grown to approximately 212,000
acres in perimeter size and is about 20%
percent contained as of Thursday, July 17. Hot, dry, and unstable
weather will likely result in heightened
fire activity and increased smoke production. The estimated
containment date is still undetermined.
Harney County health officials are providing the following
information to help local residents
proactively avoid illness from wildfire smoke inhalation. People with
respiratory or heart disease, the
elderly and children, are advised to stay indoors. Poor air quality
conditions are a health threat and
should be avoided by all residents in smoky communities. Remember,
local smoke levels can rise and fall
rapidly depending on weather factors, including wind direction.
Take the following precautions to avoid
breathing problems or other symptoms from smoke:
1.
Be aware of smoke
concentrations in your area.
2.
2. Avoid outdoor exertion during such conditions. Avoid strenuous outdoor activity including
sports practice, work and recreation.
3. Drink lots of water - staying hydrated can keep your airways moist which will help
reduce symptoms of respiratory irritation such as scratchy throat, running nose
and coughing.
4. Try to avoid driving in smoky areas. If you do need to
drive in these areas, keep your windows rolled up and vents closed. If you need
air conditioning, make sure you set your system on “recirculate” to avoid
bringing smoke into your car.
5. Avoid smoke by staying indoors, closing all windows and doors and use
a filter in your heating/cooling system that removes very fine particulate
matter.
6. People with concerns about health
issues, including those suffering from asthma or other respiratory problems,
should follow their breathing management plans; keep medications on hand, and
contact healthcare providers if necessary.
Helpful links:
http://oregonsmoke.blogspot.com/
for the
latest on fires and air quality across the state
http://public.health.oregon.gov/Preparedness/Prepare/Pages/PrepareForWildfire.aspx
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