The County of Santa Clara Public Health Department has issued an advisory in regard to the current wildfire in Butte County…
Milpitas residents are advised to stay indoors with their doors and windows shut. Air is presently polluted across the Bay Area. The smell of smoke in the air is itself indicative of a health risk. So turn on your air conditioner when in your home and your car, as that’ll keep the inside air circulating while keeping the dirty outside air away.
Whereas those with asthma and other respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable, anyone can experience irritation in their eyes, airways, and/or sinuses. Extra precautions are also recommended for the elderly and the young. In regard to young people, outdoor sports are to be avoided ‘til the smoke passes.
Also: A quick change in wind can worsen the air quality in your immediate area (i.e., just when you think it’s passed, it comes back). So keep an eye on airnow.gov for up-to-date and accurate air quality data.
Finally: Although some masks can be helpful for those who have to work or otherwise sustain outdoors, bandanas and regular surgical masks won’t protect people from the kind of smoke particles that are created by wildfires.
Please stay safe and healthy, everyone.
