
Staying Safe in Smoky Conditions
During times of extreme smokiness, such as wildfire disasters, taking precautions is essential. That’s because prolonged exposure to smoky air can lead to respiratory damage, heart complications, eye irritation, and other serious issues.
As the ongoing wildfires continue to impact Los Angeles communities, here’s what you should do to protect yourself and your family.
Understanding the Health Risks
Southern California locals are no strangers to wildfire smoke. However, that doesn’t mean the health impacts can be ignored. Complications from inhaling smoke, ash, and other toxins include:
- Respiratory Irritation — Coughing, throat pain, scratchiness, shortness of breath, and nasal congestion are all symptoms of irritation to the respiratory system. Even those without pre-existing conditions can be affected.
- Asthma Attacks — Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from wildfire smoke can trigger an asthma attack, potentially necessitating urgent medical care.
- Heart Issues — PM2.5 can also increase the risk of heart attacks, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), and strokes. Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions are especially vulnerable.
- Eyesight Irritation — Exposure to smoke may lead to itchy, red, and watery eyes. It can also cause more serious infections.
- Intense Allergies — Nasal passage irritation is triggered by smoke, leading to increased allergen sensitivities.
- COPD Risks — Those with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) can experience increased difficulty breathing, which may require a hospital visit and oxygen therapy.
- Lung Damage — Repeated exposure to smoke has been linked to interstitial lung disease and chronic bronchitis. Children and older adults are at increased risk.
- Weakened Immune System — Negative effects on the body’s respiratory organs can decrease your ability to fight bacteria and viruses like pneumonia.
- Poor Mental Health — Beyond physical impairment, the damage caused by wildfires can lead to PTSD, intense anxiety, and depression.
How to Stay Safe
If you live outside of a mandatory evacuation zone and choose to stay during periods of intense smoke, taking precautions can help reduce harmful effects. Be sure to:
- Limit outdoor activities as much as possible. Physically demanding tasks such as yard work and exercise should be avoided.
- Ensure doors and windows remain closed at all times.
- Consider purchasing a home air purifier. These devices will help filter harmful particles including smoke, mold, and allergens. Remember to change filters after heavy use.
- If you are required to go outside, wear a well-fitting N95 mask to protect your lungs.
- Prepare an evacuation plan. Stay up to date on the latest guidance from local officials and watch the news regularly. Know how all members of your household will leave if or when the time comes, and where you will go. To be efficient, pre-pack a bag with essential items like water, flashlights, chargers, and important documents.
Remember, things are replaceable. You are not. Because wildfire conditions can change quickly, staying vigilant is your best defense. Families with children, seniors, pregnant individuals, and people with pre-existing conditions should take extra care.
Community Resources at AltaMed
If you or a loved one is suffering health effects from the ongoing wildfire disaster, options are available. AltaMed Now telehealth services will connect you remotely with a medical professional who can prescribe treatments. To get started, call 888-499-9303 or use the AltaMed patient portal. For in-person care needs, visit a nearby AltaMed clinic.
Those struggling with anxiety or other mental wellness issues can call (855) 425-1777 to get connected with a behavioral health expert.