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High Temperatures and Smoky Air Could Cause Health Problems

Contact: Lindsay Madden, Health Department Manager; John Combs, Preparedness Coordinator of the Grant County Health Department
Phone: 541-575-0429
Email: lindsay.madden@gobhi.net and john.combs@gobhi.net

Grant County, Oregon public health officials urge people across the state to take precautions as temperatures and air quality reach potentially unhealthy levels.
The National Weather Service is predicting weather that could bring prolonged wildfire smoke exposure to communities in the Grant County area. Smoke levels can rise and fall depending on weather factors including wind direction.

“The combination of high temperatures and wildfire smoke in the Grant County area may increase the risk of illness especially for older adults, young children, and people with asthma, respiratory, or heart conditions,” said Lindsay Madden RN, Health Department Manager.

Public health officials urge all Oregonians to take the following precautions to avoid health problems during hot, smoky conditions.
  • Be aware of smoke concentrations in your area. Residents can get the latest information by visiting the Oregon Smoke blog: Oregonsmoke.blogspot.com or call 2-1-2 Info.
  • Avoid outdoor activities when air quality is unhealthy and hazardous. Those with heart or lung problems, as well as young children, are especially vulnerable.
  • Avoid smoke either by leaving the area or protecting yourself by staying indoors, closing all windows and doors.
  • Reduce other sources of indoor air pollution such as burning cigarettes and candles; using gas, propane, and wood burning stoves and furnaces; cooking; and vacuuming.
  • Individuals with heart disease or lung diseases such as asthma should follow their health care provider’s advice about prevention and treatment of symptoms.

Helpful links:
Oregon Smoke blog, for the latest on fires across the state:
http://oregonsmoke.blogspot.com/
DEQ’s Air Quality Index, for current air quality conditions:
www.deq.state.or.us/aqi/


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