Health Tip: When Wildfires Are Near

Suggestions to avoid smoke inhalation

September 20, 2010 RSS Feed Print

(HealthDay News) -- Wildfire smoke can cause serious respiratory problems, especially among people who already have difficulty breathing.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests how to minimize exposure to smoke from a nearby wildfire:

Keep smoke outside by closing windows and turning on the air conditioner.
Don't light a fire or burn candles inside your home.
Follow your doctor's instructions about any drugs you should take for your respiratory condition.
Don't assume that a dust mask, commonly found at hardware stores, will protect your lungs.
If given an order to evacuate the area, do so.