As we battle air quality, remember to stay safe
This week, Butler County, along with many others in the northeastern United States, has been plagued by poor air quality as smoke from wildfires in Canada contributed to daily average concentrations of fine particulate matter in the air.
It’s important to stay safe until the air clears. Knowing the risks can help you to mitigate them.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, particulate matter is made up of particles of dust, dirt, soot, smoke or drops of liquid. Some particles are big enough to see. Others are too small to be visible.
The CDC states that large particles can cause the expected irritation in the eyes, throat and nose. The smaller particles are significantly more dangerous, as they can get into the deep parts of your lungs — or even into your blood.
People most likely to experience health effects caused by particle pollution include people with heart or lung diseases, older adults, babies and children.
If you have asthma, particle pollution can make your symptoms worse. It is recommended that you carefully follow your asthma management plan while pollution is high.
Despite summer being well on its way, the CDC claims staying inside as much as possible when particulate matter is present can lessen the danger. If you are outdoors, choose easier activities so you aren’t breathing as hard.
Residents and businesses within the affected areas are encouraged to reduce or eliminate fireplace and wood stove use, avoid the open burning of leaves, trash and other materials, and avoid the use of gas-powered lawn and garden equipment, per the Department of Environmental Protection.
There are, without a doubt, regions that have it much worse than us. Even so, make sure those around you aren’t experiencing serious health problems.
Check on friends and neighbors, particularly the elderly, and keep a close watch on children.
— CM
