Wildfire Smoke Makes Poor Air Quality
A message from Ashland Board of Health & Massachusetts Department of Public Health:
Smoke from Canadian wildfires is impacting air quality in Massachusetts. This creates hazy conditions and raises fine-particle pollution levels in some areas. Poor air quality can have significant adverse effects on sensitive groups. This includes children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with chronic medical conditions. It also affects people who are active outdoors.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health offers resources on wildfire smoke and air quality. Please check these resources. Share them with patients, residents, and community partners when needed.
Some resources will be posted in the comments.
Wildfire smoke safety tips:
-Monitor local air quality and follow public health and air quality advisories
– Limit outdoor activity and strenuous exercise when air quality is poor; move activities indoors when possible
– Keep indoor air cleaner by closing windows and doors, setting air conditioning systems to recirculate, and using high-efficiency (HEPA) air filters when available
– Avoid activities that increase indoor particle levels, including smoking, burning candles or incense, frying or broiling food, and using non-HEPA vacuums
– Follow medical guidance if at greater risk for asthma or other health concerns
– Keep medications available, and contact a health care provider with concerns
– Have a supply of N95 masks, learn when and how to use them, and practice having your child wear small N95 or surgical masks
– Seek immediate medical care for chest pain, chest tightness, severe shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing.