EVANSVILLE, In. (WHIST) – Locals awoke on Wednesday as a thin smog blanketed the city, the result of shifting winds from nearly 500 active wildfires in Canada’s provinces. Experts say people need to take this seriously or they risk putting their health at risk.
“A lot depends on how much particulate matter is present. So when the EPA releases its air quality index, it’s all about how many particles smaller than 2.5 microns are in the air. Right now you’re at 175 in Evansville, which is right in the middle of the red zone, which is the danger zone,” says Dr. Ravi Johar from United Healthcare.
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management says the air is unsafe for sensitive people — and they should avoid outdoor activities in these conditions. A plume of smoke covered the Tristate this morning. The pools were open. However, to the frustration of some local swimmers, a decision was made to close them at 2pm.
“No because it’s like closing tomorrow and more days because I love swimming so I mean yes but at least they are doing something about it but at the same time no I” “I’m not happy” says pool-goer Janaya Campbell.
In the meantime, people can take appropriate precautions to ensure they are unaffected by the haze.
“The best way to protect yourself is to stay indoors as best you can, stay in air conditioning, make sure you have all your medication. So call your doctor, call your pharmacy if you need refills for your inhalers – make sure you have everything available to you. If you need oxygen, make sure you have enough oxygen at home and just stay indoors. Don’t go outside unless absolutely necessary,” says Dr. Kailyn Kahre, ER Physician at Ascension St. Vincent.
Experts say they expect the haze to last for a few days and try to stay indoors, especially if a person has a lung condition like asthma or COPD. People who have to work outside are advised to wear N-95 masks.
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