FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH IN BROWARD COUNTY ADVISES EVERYONE TO TAKE PRECAUTIONS DURING CURRENT AIR QUALITY CONDITIONS

People with respiratory ailments, pregnant women, infants, children and the elderly are at greater risk

 

-- Health officials at the Florida Department of Health in Broward County are advising everyone to take precautions during this period of increased air pollution levels due to wildfires.  Infants, children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with chronic diseases such as as asthma are at greater risk from breaking in smoke from wildfires.

Smoke from wildfires may cause coughing, a scratchy throat, irritated sinuses, shortness of breath, ches pains, headaches, stinging eyes and a runny nose.

Problems can begin a very short time after breathing in smoke and without warning.

DOH-Broward offers these recommendations:
   
Limit outdoor activities and remain in an air-conditioned environment, if possible.

If you do not have an air conditioner and if smoke is likely to get inside your house, leave the area until the smoke is completely gone.

Avoid activities that put extra demands on your lungs and heart. These include exercising or physical chores, both outdoors and indoors.

Make sure you take all your medications according to your doctor’s instructions.

Dust masks, bandanas, or other cloths (even if wet) will not protect you from smoke.

Contact your healthcare provider if you are concerned or your health gets worse.

For additional information on Broward County’s air quality forecast, contact Broward County Air Quality Division at (954) 519-1260 or visit

www.broward.org/air.