Public Health Advisory - October 25, 2019

October 25th, 2019 - 1:32pm

Wildfire Smoke from the Kincade Fire in Sonoma County is moving into Marin County. This will affect air quality throughout the day. Based on current air quality levels, Marin County Public Health is not recommending school closures or canceling normal business activities. We are closely monitoring air quality conditions.

Today, air quality in Marin County will become unhealthy for sensitive people (Level 3). It is okay to be active outside (e.g., recess and physical education). Active youth, adults, and people with respiratory diseases should reduce prolonged outdoor exertion.  Students with asthma should follow their asthma action plans and keep their quick-relief medicine handy.

Keep Yourself and Others Safe 
  • Smoke can irritate the eyes and airways, causing cough, a dry scratchy throat, runny nose, trouble breathing, and irritated sinuses. Stay hydrated by drinking water during heavy smoke events. 
  • Avoid adding additional air pollution by curtailing activities such as wood burning, lawn mowing, leaf blowing, driving, barbecuing, smoking, or other dust-producing activities. If possible, use the stove fan when cooking. 
  • Local smoke levels can rise and fall rapidly, depending on weather factors, including wind direction. Sign up for Alert Marin for up-to-date information.
  • Check on friends, family, and neighbors. Older adults, pregnant individuals, children, and people with respiratory illnesses are susceptible to elevated air pollution levels and should take precautions to avoid exposure.  
 
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Marin County Public Health (https://www.marinhhs.org/wildfire-air-quality)
AirNow California Air Quality (https://airnow.gov/index.cfm?action=airnow.local_state&stateid=5
Bay Area Air Quality Management District Current Air Quality (http://www.baaqmd.gov/about-air-quality/current-air-quality)