Three major wildfires erupted on Tuesday across Los Angeles County, fueled by dangerously high winds. These fires prompted large-scale evacuations, with thousands of residents forced to flee. Brent Pascua of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection spoke with ABC News, describing the “extreme fire activity” and high winds of the Palisades blaze as unlike anything he had seen before.
For those trying to escape the flames, here are some essential health tips provided by experts to ensure safety and well-being during this challenging time.
The Danger Zones
Dr. Zab Mosenifar, a lung specialist at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, explained that the people most at risk are those living within 25 miles of the fires. The smoke and particles released from the fires can travel over long distances, affecting residents far beyond the immediate danger area.
“The smoke particles can travel hundreds of miles. Depending on wind conditions, they can remain in the air for up to two weeks even after the fire is put out,” warned Dr. Mosenifar. He emphasized that small particles, often invisible to the eye, can deeply affect the health of individuals breathing them in.
Vulnerable Groups
Certain groups are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of wildfire smoke, including children, the elderly, and people with chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma. The small particles in smoke can cause significant harm to their lungs and overall health.
Dr. Jennifer Ashton, ABC News’ chief medical correspondent, warned that inhaling smoke or particulate matter for long periods can lead to both short-term and long-term lung damage. Individuals who smoke, vape, or have pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma are at an even higher risk of developing serious problems from exposure to wildfire smoke.
Health Risks of Wildfire Smoke
Breathing in harmful particles from wildfire smoke can lead to a variety of health issues. The immediate effects can include coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and wheezing. For individuals already struggling with lung conditions, these effects may be more severe and can worsen over time.
Additionally, long-term exposure to smoke can result in permanent damage to the lungs. “Prolonged exposure to particulate matter, especially in high concentrations, can be dangerous for people with weakened lungs,” Dr. Ashton added. This emphasizes the importance of taking precautions to limit exposure to wildfire smoke.
Protective Measures
Experts recommend several steps to protect yourself and others during this dangerous time:
- Wear N95 Masks: For those in the affected areas, wearing an N95 mask is highly recommended. These masks are designed to filter out harmful particles from the air, providing essential protection. Dr. Ashton stressed that wearing an N95 mask can significantly reduce the risk of inhaling harmful particles.
- Seek Shelter: If you’re in the path of the fire or near areas with heavy smoke, stay indoors as much as possible. Close windows and doors to prevent smoke from entering your home. If your air conditioning system is equipped with a recirculation function, use it to prevent outside air from coming inside. Dr. Mosenifar also recommended using an air filter to clean the air in your home, especially in areas where the smoke is thickest.
- Stay Hydrated and Rested: Staying hydrated and well-rested is essential during these stressful times. Breathing in smoke can irritate the throat and respiratory system, so drinking plenty of fluids can help soothe irritation. Avoid physical exertion as much as possible to reduce strain on your lungs.
- Monitor Symptoms: If you experience persistent symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, or wheezing, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of respiratory distress that may require professional care.
- Protect Your Eyes: Smoke can also irritate your eyes, leading to pain, redness, and impaired vision. Dr. Ashton recommended wearing goggles to protect your eyes from the smoke. If your eyes are hurting or you have blurry vision, seek medical attention immediately. Avoid rubbing your eyes as this can worsen the irritation.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with news reports and warnings from local authorities about air quality and the status of the fires. Being informed allows you to make timely decisions about evacuation or staying indoors.
Conclusion
As wildfires continue to rage across Los Angeles County, residents need to take steps to protect their health. With the high risk of smoke inhalation and the potential for long-lasting effects on the lungs, it’s important to follow safety measures, wear protective masks, and stay indoors whenever possible. Those with existing respiratory conditions must be especially cautious and should seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
By following the health advice from experts, residents can better protect themselves during this challenging and dangerous time.
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