Tuesday, November 14 2018 - Joint Air Quality Advisory - Butte County

The Butte County Air Quality Management District Air Pollution Control Officer and the Butte County Public Health Officer are issuing this updated Joint Air Quality Advisory to notify the public about continued widespread wildfire smoke impacts in Butte County due to the Camp Fire. Unhealthy to Very unhealthy conditions are possible throughout most of Butte County today through this weekend while the fire remains active. Smoke levels are expected to be the highest near the active fire, immediately downwind of the fire area, and within and downwind of canyon drainages.
The major air pollutant of concern is fine particulate matter also known as PM2.5. While all persons may experience varying degrees of symptoms, the more sensitive individuals, such as the young, the elderly, pregnant women, smokers, and those with respiratory conditions are of greatest risk for experiencing more aggravated symptoms which may include, but are not limited to coughing, watery and itchy eyes, and difficulty in breathing.

Persons experiencing questionable or severe symptoms should seek professional medical advice and treatment. The following actions are recommended as needed in areas impacted by smoke:

• Limit outdoor exertion, especially children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions;

• If your child shows signs of compromised breathing or has respiratory conditions, follow your doctor’s directions regarding medicines and asthma management plans. Call your doctor if symptoms worsen;

• Keep doors and windows closed as much as possible in buildings and vehicles.

• Avoid the use of non-HEPA paper face mask filters which are not capable of filtering extra fine particulates. If you must wear a mask outdoors, be sure it is rated N-95 or better and be sure it is fitted properly;

• Check or replace air conditioner filters. Use the air conditioner on the recirculate setting. Use HVAC filters with a rating of MERV-8 or better. MERV 12 and 13 offer the best protection;

• Avoid breathing in accumulated or airborne ash. Also avoid skin contact with accumulated ash, especially children and pets. Please do not use leaf blowers to clean ash.

This notification will remain in effect while the Camp Fire remains active. Outdoor residential burning is currently prohibited by CalFire. More information including access to air quality data is available at www.bcaqmd.org or www.butteairquality.com. Questions may be directed to 530-332-9400 during regular business hours.