A forest fire in northeast Sierra Nevada is at last spreading in a direction which no longer threatens people’s homes in Pumas County, say authorities. However, another one in Santa Clara County is still causing serious concern for some 25 homeowners.
The northeast Sierra Nevada has sent a plume of smoke and haze hundreds of miles away, where health warnings are still being issued. Yesterday as the wind changed directions and allowed some parts of the area to breathe a sigh of relief, those at Susanville appear to be the new target for the haze.
Near Greenville, the Moonlight fire covers an area of 42,000 acres, up from a previous estimate of 34,000 acres. Fortunately, winds were such that the fires are moving away from residential areas, say officials.
1,900 firefighters are battling another fire which has so far burned over 39,000 acres in Henry W. Coe State Park, Santa Clara County. This fire started six days ago. Authorities say it is 45% contained.
According to the L.A. Times, another fire has consumed 600 acres in the Shasta-Trinity Forest – officials say it is 80% contained.
Wildfires and Health
In the USA, and many other parts of the world, wildfires are an ongoing concern. In the USA the Southwest and Midwestern US are areas of particular concern as the climate is often dry and hot. During a wildfire a large number of people may suffer the effects of forest fire smoke, especially those who suffer from asthma, emphysema and bronchitis.
The American Lung Association say it is important for people with respiratory problems and chronic heart disease to monitor their breathing when there is a forest fire about, especially their exposure to airborne matter. If anybody in the above-mentioned categories develops a problem he/she should contact a physician immediately.
American Lung Association Recommendations
www.lungusa.org
— If you are within the range of forest fire smoke you should remain indoors and avoid inhaling it, and not only the smoke – there may be ashes floating about and other particulates which you could breathe in.
— Even ordinary dust masks do not stop dangerous smaller particles from passing through into your airways. There are some effective masks which have true HEPA filters – they will stop those particles from coming through. However, bear in mind that people with lung disease may find them difficult to use. If you do suffer from a related health problem, especially lung disease, you should check with a health care professional before using a mask.
— If you are near the affected area do not exercise outdoors. One of the many signs that you are near is when your eyes start to smart and your throat becomes irritated.
— As children’s airways are still developing you should be especially more careful to protect them from tainted air. Children breathe in more air per pound of body mass compared to adults.
— If you are driving keep the windows and vents closed and only use the air-conditioning in the ‘re-circulate’ setting.
If you suffer from a respiratory problems or chronic heart disease
— You should stay indoors as much as you can.
— Make sure your doors, windows and fireplace dampers are well shut.
— You should have, if possible, clean air circulating through air-conditioners and air cleaners and purifiers. Make sure your air-conditioners are working on the re-circulate setting.
— If the symptoms of your illness get worse try contacting a physician or health care professional. If you can’t contact a health care professional and you suffer from asthma follow the asthma action plan developed by your physician. If it is prescribed, use your peak flow meter.
— Be willing to take the full range of medications your doctor has prescribed for your illness (making sure you follow instructions properly).
— If you do need to go out, try breathing through a damp cloth as this will filter out some of the harmful particles.
— If you suffer from asthma check with your doctor about any changes in medication needed when conditions are smoky.
— If you are using oxygen do not adjust the oxygen setting without checking with a physician – make sure you call your doctor before you do anything to alter the levels.
— If your pulmonary symptoms do not respond to the usual medications you should seek medical attention. The following symptoms should be taken seriously: wheezing, difficulty taking a full breathe, shortness of breath, chest heaviness, light headedness and dizziness.
— Call your doctor if you develop a persistent cough, or if your breathing becomes difficult and/or painful. Remember that your symptoms may appear 24-48 hours after exposure.
During the Clean up
— If you suffer from lung or heart problems you should avoid activities which involve cleaning up in areas where dust and soot are present.
Written by: Christian Nordqvist