As the days progress with the constant smoke just remember there are some things we can do to protect your health from the harmful pollutants filling the air. Smoke is a complex mixture of particles and gases which, includes carbon dioxide, water vapor, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, hydrocarbons and other organic chemicals, nitrogen oxides, trace minerals and several thousand other compounds. The actual composition of smoke depends on the fuel type, the temperature of the fire, and the wind conditions. While the ash and smoke are visible reminders of the pollution currently impacting an area, be even more cautious of the fine particles you can’t see. These particles, which are invisible to the naked eye, bypass our natural defense system and lodge into our lungs. They can cause irritation , and over the long-term cause decreased lung function. They also make us more susceptible to developing diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and possibly cancer. Not everyone who is exposed to thick smoke will have health problems. The level and duration of exposure, age, individual susceptibility, including the presence or absence of pre-existing lung or heart disease, and other factors play significant roles in determining whether or not someone will experience smoke-related health problems. For quick information on Dealing with Smoke and more in-depth information follows below: placer.ca.gov/apcd sparetheair epa.gov/airnow/smoke
Posted on: Tue, 23 Sep 2014 15:29:51 +0000