A forest filled with lots of trees under a cloudy sky. Photo by Hunter Masters on Unsplash
🎧 Wildfire Smoke in SW Washington: How to Stay Safe
Wildfire conditions like we’re experiencing can be taxing — physically and emotionally
With active wildfires in our region and smoky air affecting communities across southwest Washington, residents can take steps to protect themselves against the harmful effects of smoke that has made its way into our area.
Wildfire smoke can cause eye and throat irritation, coughing or headaches — and it can be especially challenging for individuals with asthma, COPD, heart conditions or allergies, as well as children, older adults and pregnant women.
Steps southwest Washington residents can take today:
· Limit Outdoor Exposure: If your community is experiencing poor air quality, keep doors and windows closed, and avoid strenuous exercise outdoors while smoke levels remain elevated.
· Manage Indoor Air: Set your home HVAC system or vehicle air conditioner to recirculate air.
· Keep Medications Handy: Ensure you have an adequate supply of your maintenance and rescue medications (such as inhalers).
· Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help soothe irritated airways.
If you are experiencing severe difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or sudden dizziness, call 9-1-1 or visit the nearest Emergency Department immediately.
Wildfire conditions like we’re experiencing can be taxing — physically and emotionally.
All PeaceHealth hospitals, emergency centers and clinics are open, safe and fully operational. Our facilities teams have activated high-efficiency air filtration systems and advanced ventilation controls across our buildings.
About PeaceHealth
PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, is a nonprofit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. PeaceHealth has approximately 16,000 caregivers, nearly 3,200 physicians and clinicians, more than 160 clinics and 9 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities throughout the Northwest. In 1890, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace founded what has become PeaceHealth. The Sisters shared expertise and transferred wisdom from one medical center to another, always finding the best way to serve the unmet need for healthcare in their communities. Today, PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission.
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