IMAGE PROVIDED/KEZI
With air quality expected to decline this week, Lane County Public Health advises residents to take special considerations:
• Individuals who have preexisting lung conditions or who are very young or very old are advised to stay indoors if possible and close windows and doors
• During periods of poor air quality, everyone is encouraged to avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
• People exposed to smoky conditions and who suffer from asthma or other respiratory problems should follow their breathing management plans or contact their healthcare providers.
• Use high efficiency particulate air filters (HEPA filters) or electrostatic precipitator filters (ESP filters) if you can. These can help clean indoor air.
The most effective way people can protect themselves is to limit exposure by staying indoors and limiting outdoor activities.
People who must be outdoors may be considering the use of masks to help protect their lungs from wildfire smoke. Masks can create a false sense of security if not properly selected, fitted and used. Here are a few things you should know if you are considering the use of a mask:
• Surgical masks and bandanas don’t filter the fine smoke particles that can affect your health.
• The type of masks that may offer protection are those with a specific type of respirator (P100 or N95). These respirators are not designed for children and are not made in children’s sizes.
• Anyone choosing to wear a P100 or N95 respirator should receive a professional fit-test to ensure its effectiveness. If the respirator does not fit correctly or does not have a good seal, people may think they are protected when they are not. This false sense of security may lead to people taking on activities that continue to expose them to smoke.
Below is a list of spaces that offer public access to cleaner air, listed by city.
Springfield
– Springfield Public Library, 225 Fifth St.
– Bob Keefer Center, 250 S. 32nd St.
– Willamalane Adult Activity Center, 15 W. C St.
Creswell
New Hope Baptist Church, 597 S. Front St.
– Creswell Library, 64 W. Oregon Ave.
Cottage Grove
– Cottage Grove Community Center, 700 E. Gibbs Ave.
– Cottage Grove Public Library, 700 E. Gibbs Ave., Cottage Grove
