Most air purifiers in Home Depots around Central Los Angeles are sold out
With high pollution levels in the air due to soot across Los Angeles, most people are now using masks and air purifiers to breathe.
According to experts, the wildfires have killed five people so far, but officials say the death toll is likely to be higher. More than 9,000 structures have already been destroyed or damaged and 1,30,000 residents are under evacuation orders. Experts say as of now LA is not out of danger and these fires have the potential to be the costliest and deadliest wildfire disaster in American history.
The fire—packed with plastic, asbestos, and other toxins released from homes and businesses—is raging through several Los Angeles neighbourhoods. Most people are complaining of their eyes and throat burning.
Microplastics are the most dangerous
Experts say there are microparticles going into the lungs, which is concerning. Apart from the immediate effects, there are several long-term repercussions also to be worried about.
The US Environmental Protection Agency says small particles are some of the most health-damaging air pollution - linked to various chronic and deadly health issues. Across Southern California, most people are taking precautions as the air quality index — a measure that includes fine particles — reached hazardous levels for some neighborhoods, including Pasadena.
Most air purifiers in Home Depots around Central Los Angeles are sold out.
Most people suffering from breathing issues
According to Dr. Puneet Gupta, assistant medical director for the Los Angeles County Fire Department, emergency room doctors have told him that most people with breathing problems are coming in by ambulance, driving themselves and with family.
“Conditions are changing constantly with shifts in wind and wind speed. It’s important to take precautions like masking and staying indoors even after the fires are out because air quality can be poor for quite some time,” Gupta said.
Doctors say they are mostly worried about very fine particles, which can carry toxic substances deep into the lungs and bloodstream, potentially causing heart and lung problems. When homes and cars made with toxic-containing materials burn, it adds to the danger.
So, it is important to wear N-95 respirators outdoors and for people with asthma or other respiratory problems to keep medicine and emergency inhalers with them.
How do you protect yourself from the aftereffects of smoke?
Experts suggest if you are living in a poor air quality zone, you must stay indoors and reduce activity levels. And if that is not possible, there are a few precautions you can take, which include:
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Wear an N95 mask to limit exposure
- Using a portable air cleaner to reduce indoor air pollution.
- If you have filters on your home HVAC system, make sure they are up-to-date and of high quality.
- Run the air conditioning in your home and car on a recirculation setting to prevent outside air from coming in.
- Do not contribute to indoor air pollution by burning candles or using gas, propane, woodburning stoves, fireplaces, or aerosol sprays.
- Do not fry or broil meat
- Stop smoking tobacco products or vacuum
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