AIr Quality Alert

Air Quality Alert

Tuesday 9/13/11

The Pagami Creek Fire that started in the Boundary Waters Wilderness is increasing and is causing smoke to spread over northeast Minnesota. Smoke contains small particulates that can spread deep into the lungs, causing lung and cardiovascular effects. The Air Quality Program will provide updates on air quality; however, if you smell smoke, take the following precautions to limit health effects, and if you experience health effects, contact health services immediately.

Precautions You Can Take to Limit Health Effects

· Children, elders, and those sensitive to air pollution should avoid being outside when you can smell and see smoke. Everyone should be cautious of exercising outdoors when smoke is present.

· Avoid drawing smoky air indoors: use an air conditioner if you have one and keep it on the recycle/recirculate mode. If you are using a fan, place them away from a window, where they would draw in smoky air.

Possible Health Effects from Fire Smoke

· Eye and throat irritation

· Respiratory symptoms, such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath

· Aggravation of asthma and heart or lung disease