GRANTS, NM – The New Mexico Department of Health (NMHealth) is urging residents of Cibola County to consider air quality safety and wildfire preparation this in response to wildfires across the state, even as the Encerrita Fire has been contained.
“Breathing in smoke can aggravate conditions such as asthma and other chronic lung diseases, as well as cardiovascular disease,” said Heidi Krapfl, Acting Director, Center for Health Protection for NMHealth. “Poor air quality can also create unsafe driving conditions in areas directly impacted by the fires.”
While the Encerrita Fire has been put out, smoke from other fires in the region may still affect air quality. Here are a few quick tips to protect yourself from smoke:
• Stay Informed: Know the conditions nearest you by seeking out detailed information about specific fires as reported online at nmfireinfo. com.
• Stay Indoors: Where smoke is a factor, staying indoors is one of the best things you can do. Check the air quality in your area by visiting fire.airnow.gov.
• Estimate Air Quality: When you don’t have an air monitor in your area, use the 5-3-1 Visibility Method to estimate the air quality and the actions you should take based on your health circumstances and age.
• Monitor Alerts: Pay attention to local air quality alerts to plan your day and travel. Air quality reports are available through local news media and social media.
• Keep Indoor Air Clean: Keep your indoor air clean by closing windows and doors.
• Avoid Swamp Coolers: Avoid using swamp coolers when possible, as they pull air from outside directly into your home during smoky conditions.
By taking these precautions, residents of Cibola County can better protect their health and safety during wildfire events. Stay vigilant and prepared for changing air quality conditions.