News and Alerts
Posted: June 24, 2008
Contact: Leigh Hall, MD
Sonoma County Deputy Public Health Officer
(707) 565-4401
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Sonoma County Health Officer Issues Smoke Advisory
Santa Rosa, CA - The recent series of fires in Napa and other surrounding counties has blanketed Sonoma County in a layer of visible smoke. While firefighters work round the clock to extinguish these fires, local health officials are issuing a "Smoke Advisory" to alert the public about the hazards of smoke and steps they can take to protect themselves. Smoky conditions can be hazardous for children, the elderly and individuals with heart conditions or chronic lung disease, such as asthma and bronchitis or other respiratory ailments.
Dr. Leigh Hall, Deputy Public Health Officer, urges residents to take the following precautions:
- While smoke is in the air, it is best to stay indoors when possible.
- Keep windows and doors closed unless it is extremely hot.
- If you have an air conditioner, keep the fresh air intake closed and the filter clean.
Dr. Hall also advises individuals with asthma, bronchitis, emphysema or other lung or heart conditions to:
- Have at least a five-day supply of your medications on hand.
- Be sure your asthma management plan is current and follow it carefully during these unusually smoky conditions.
- Contact your doctor immediately if you have symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath or severe fatigue.
These recommendations are important for not only people with chronic lung or heart disease, but also for individuals who have not previously been diagnosed with such illnesses since smoke can "unmask" or produce symptoms of such diseases.
Residents are advised to stay tuned to local radio and other media to keep updated on fires and air conditions and take precautions to stay safe until the smoke clears.
For more information visit the following website: