CLEVELAND – Ohio Department of Health Director Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff asked Ohioans on Thursday to be aware of possible health effects from the poor air quality caused by Canada's wildfires.
“Exposure to smoke can cause health problems for anyone, but certain groups are more at risk than others,” Vanderhoff said. “These include people with chronic heart or lung disease, children, the elderly, and pregnant women. It is important to take precautions until our air quality improves.”
A statewide air quality advisory has been issued by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. It expects air quality to remain low through Thursday and into Friday.
Vanderhoff explained wildfire smoke contains particulates, which can be inhaled and cause irritation to the eyes nose or throat, shortness of breath, chest pain and coughing. It can also cause chronic heart and lung conditions to worsen.
Vanderhoff advised Ohioans to limit outdoor activities in the meantime and to spend more time indoors.
Other precautions:
- Stay in rooms that can be closed off from outside air
- Don't use things that could worsen air pollution, such as candles, gas, propane, wood-burning stoves, fireplaces and aerosol sprays
- Use high-efficiency filters for the central air conditioning system, so it can capture smoke particles
- Drink a lot of water
- If you're experiencing irritation of the eyes, nose or throat, a humidifier may provide relief.
As of Thursday afternoon, air quality numbers have gotten better. Most of the state is under the moderate (yellow) level. However, the smoke is expected to worsen heading into Friday before filtering out for the weekend. You can check the air quality by clicking here.
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