Wildfire Smoke Threatens San Diego’s Air As Los Angeles Fires Rage

The Situation

Wildfires raging in Los Angeles County have sent thick smoke eastward, threatening the air quality in San Diego. The smoke has already caused air quality alerts to be issued for parts of the county, and health officials are urging residents to take precautions to protect themselves from the harmful effects of smoke inhalation.

The Risks of Smoke Inhalation

Smoke from wildfires contains a variety of pollutants, including particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides. These pollutants can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, and can also cause respiratory problems, such as asthma and bronchitis. Long-term exposure to smoke can increase the risk of developing chronic health problems, such as heart disease and cancer.

How to Protect Yourself from Smoke

There are a number of things you can do to protect yourself from the harmful effects of smoke inhalation, including:

• Staying indoors as much as possible, especially when air quality is poor.
• Keeping windows and doors closed.
• Using an air purifier to remove smoke particles from the air.
• Wearing a mask or respirator when you are outdoors.
• Avoiding strenuous activity outdoors.

Resources for San Diego Residents

The San Diego County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) is monitoring air quality conditions and providing updates on its website. The APCD also offers a free mobile app that provides real-time air quality data and alerts. For more information on how to protect yourself from smoke inhalation, visit the APCD website or call the APCD hotline at 1-800-280-7664.

Conclusion

The smoke from the Los Angeles wildfires poses a serious threat to the air quality in San Diego. Residents should take precautions to protect themselves from the harmful effects of smoke inhalation, such as staying indoors, keeping windows and doors closed, and wearing a mask or respirator when outdoors. For more information on air quality conditions and how to protect yourself from smoke, visit the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District website or call the APCD hotline.