JACKSONVILLE FOREST-FIRE SMOKE & ASTHMA ADVISORY! (Jacksonville and surrounding areas) 4/9/12
JACKSONVILLE FOREST FIRE SMOKE & ASTHMA ADVISORY! (Jacksonville and surrounding areas) 4/9/12
Credit: Fire093 at photobucket
Forest fire smoke from along the Georgia border and Columbia and Clay counties has arrived in the Jacksonville area. It is important to be mindful that smoke of any kind is a very powerful respiratory irritant. This is especially true for asthmatics. Unlike other forms of smoke that can be avoided, wildfire smoke can be nearly impossible to avoid. Smoke from wildfires may also contain tiny particles that can further irritate the airways and cause an asthma attack. If you smell smoke, try to limit your time outdoors and remember to keep your home and car windows shut.
There is a nice resource by the American Lung Society which offers useful tips for asthmatics living in the vicinity of active forest fires. If you or your child has asthma, we would strongly encourage you to visit the American Lung Society’s link below.
Forest Fires and Respiratory Health Fact Sheet (American Lung Society)